About AbilityPLUS

AbilityPLUS People

AbilityPLUS News and Media Area

AbilityPLUS is a nonprofit organization with a base of operation in Waterville Valley New Hampshire.  We provide Adaptive Snowsports and other recreation activities throughout the northeastern United States for people with both physical and/or developmental disabilities.

AbilityPLUS was founded in 1997 by Kathy Chandler, the founder and director of the Waterville Valley Adaptive Skiing Program and a small group of volunteers who were inspired by the awesome achievements of the participants of all ages with physical or developmental disabilities.

Today, with the help of our partner programs and hundreds of volunteers, we have provided thousands of lessons for people with disabilities who, along with their families and friends have experienced the joy of inclusion in mainstream recreational activities. AbilityPLUS and each of our Affiliate Programs are open to everyone. We teach and work with people regardless of their age or disability.

The joy, pride and self-respect that our participants feel radiate outward, and touch not only the staff and volunteers, but families and the community at large. The determination, satisfaction, and success that one experiences from AbilityPLUS opportunities eradicate the preconceived notions regarding the limitations of people with disabilities. This leads to a change in attitudes and perceptions, as people see and respect one another for their character and tenacity, not for their external constraints.

Thank you for visiting our website.

A letter from the mother of Eli, a student at Waterville Valley 2003

"...As [Eli ] waved to me again from the lift I realized that I was crying! I couldn't believe it. My husband said it was my right. His tears were hidden behind his goggles. Pride, happiness and awe only touch the surface of our feelings that day. Finally, something he could truly enjoy doing: without meetings, IEPs, phone calls, arguing, lawyers or waiting. All it took was the hard work of volunteers who spend their time off from jobs as therapists, OT's, PT's, doctors, teachers and students to help children with all abilities and disabilities. They are dedicated to getting children out on the slopes; to have them feel the freedom of flying down the mountain."

Learn more about AbilityPLUS from our PowerPoint Presentation

(Powerpoint or Viewer Required)

See the Video of a Typical AbilityPLUS Experience in Windows Media Format