Day in a Chair programs are a rewarding and enlightening experience for all involved. Each participant will gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the challenges faced by those with a spinal cord injury (SCI). HeadNorth hosts two variations of this program: Annual Day in a Chair and Office & School Day in a Chair.
Annual Day in a Chair
Every April, HeadNorth hosts its Annual Day in a Chair event where Board members, volunteers and friends participate to raise awareness. Teams of two participants, one a spinal cord injury survivor and the other an able-bodied volunteer, spend the day together, both in wheelchairs. The able-bodied teammate experiences the various challenges faced by individuals in wheelchairs everyday. All of the teams gather at a post-event party to share stories of their eye-opening day, ending the experience with a perspective on some of the daily challenges faced by those living with a spinal cord injury.
This was a great program that gave me appreciation for the things I take for granted and the activities I can do daily.
Stacey Tyree
Thank you for letting me live in someone else’s shoes. My perception has changed on what it is like to be in a chair.
JP Huntington
Beyond the physical challenges, it was amazing to see how people interacted with me while I spent time in a chair. What an eye-opening experience!
Steve Saars
Office & School Day in a Chair
The Office & School Day in a Chair programs allow employees, students and/or staff to volunteer to spend a day in a wheelchair and gain insight into the everyday perspective of those living with a spinal cord injury (SCI). HeadNorth hosts a kick-off and wrap-up meeting with a SCI survivor to ensure maximum impact. Participants can choose to perform as many typical daily activities as they wish. Following the time in the wheelchair, each participant has the opportunity to share their stories and insights, and receives a certificate of completion.