Since its inception in 2009, the Boat and Beach for People with Disabilities event has grown from a modest community gathering into a symbol of inclusion and joy that draws participants from across the country. The American Foundation for People with Disabilities was founded by the late Jay Van Vechten and his wife, Lowell Van Vechten. Held annually in Boca Raton, Florida, the event has become a cherished tradition providing a day of fun, friendship and empowerment for people with disabilities and their families.
Jay Van Vechten’s vision was to transform what was once known as a Picnic in the Park for People with Disabilities into something special. The Boat & Beach Bash was born with the support of dedicated volunteers, friends and the City of Boca Raton. Over the years, the event has received tremendous support from organizations such as the Royal Palm Yacht Club, Boca Raton Police and Fire Rescue, Downtown Boca Raton Rotary Club and other generous sponsors, allowing the event to thrive and expand its reach.
Following Jay’s passing in 2020, Dr. Christopher Noe became CEO of the American Foundation for People with Disabilities, continuing Jay’s legacy. With unwavering dedication, Noe and Lowell, along with their passionate team, have ensured that the Bash remains an annual highlight for the disability community.
At the heart of the Bash’s mission is free and open to all. This dedication has made the Bash the largest non-profit disability event in the United States, attracting thousands of participants each year. The event provides a fun-filled day and serves as a platform to raise awareness and address misconceptions about disabilities.
The 15th annual Bash, to be held in 2024, is a testament to the event’s lasting impact. Guests will be welcomed with open arms and hearts against the backdrop of the blue waves of Spanish River Park. The day will kick off with an official opening ceremony attended by honored guests and accented by heartfelt performances. A proclamation from Mayor Scott Singer commemorates the occasion, declaring March 2 a Day to Celebrate the Resilience and Spirit of People with Disabilities.
Throughout the day, the party is lively and offers a variety of experiences for every interest. From art exhibits to performances by the MC-JROTC Olympic Heights Color Guard (Marines), guest performance singer Kelly Boyle, train rides and boat adventures with Coast Guard Auxiliary Squadron 36 from Boca Raton, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Dedicated support stations ensure that the needs of the participants are met, with over 40 stations offering services such as service animal companions, sun protection care and barrier-free pontoon boats for those with mobility issues. In addition, accessibility has been further improved with the introduction of Mobi Mats, portable walkways for people with disabilities, allowing them to easily navigate the sand and enjoy the festivities without any obstacles. By the end of the event, 822 guests had boarded the 14 volunteer boats provided for the day, thanks to the tireless efforts of Marine and Boat Operations Managers John Muir and Michael Brody.
Volunteers, including captains and crew, play a vital role in the success of the Bash. The event grows in size each year, providing countless opportunities for captains and crew to contribute. There are countless ways to make a meaningful impact, from donating time, money, or a boat to spreading the word about the event to friends and family. Experienced captains can help provide a safe and efficient boat ride and guide boat arrivals and departures to ensure a smooth experience for participants. Those with accessible boats are encouraged to provide accommodations for people with both visible and invisible disabilities, promoting an environment of inclusivity and accessibility. Additionally, volunteers from a variety of backgrounds, including physical therapists, health and wellness professionals, and hospital attendants, are welcome to provide their services and support.
Amidst the laughter and friendship, some inspiring moments highlight the Bash’s transformative power. One such story is that of Juan Carlos Gil, who has been with the event since its inception in 2009. Despite living with a learning disability, visual impairment and cerebral palsy, Juan’s optimism knows no bounds. He runs an embroidery business, is featured on the Mercury Marine website and embodies the spirit of the Bash.
“If the able-bodied community can do it, so can I,” Gill said.
One standout moment at this year’s bash, as members like event general managers Noe and Lori Weber can attest, was the entrepreneurial spirit of a 12-year-old girl cheering on her 4-year-old sister. She sold handmade soaps to raise funds and awareness, exemplifying the sense of purpose and community fostered at the event. But the event isn’t just for young people.
“We had an older woman who for the first time was sitting on the beach in her wheelchair watching the waves crashing. This event gave her the opportunity to achieve something she never thought possible,” Muir said.
As the Boat & Beach Bash continues to grow and evolve, its message of inclusion and empowerment resonates far beyond the shores of Boca Raton. With each passing year, Jay Van Vechten’s legacy lives on, reminding us all to embrace joy, dream big, and never underestimate the potential that lies within each of us.
In addition to directly impacting participants, the Boat & Beach Bash also serves as a catalyst for broader social change. By challenging stereotypes and promoting accessibility, the event encourages dialogue and drives progress toward a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. In past years, the bash has invited celebrities with disabilities to raise awareness of disabilities, including America’s Got Talent contestant Kechi Okuchi and American Idol finalist Leon Paige.
The success of the Bash is measured not only in attendance numbers, but also in lasting friendships forged, barriers broken and lives changed — a testament to the power of a community coming together with a shared vision of embracing and celebrating diversity.
Organizers of the Bash have ambitious plans to further expand its reach and impact, with the goal of hosting similar events in different cities and communities, spreading the message of inclusion and accessibility far and wide.
In addition to its flagship event in Boca Raton, the Bash seeks to partner with organizations and individuals who share its values and are committed to creating a more inclusive society, believing that through collaboration and collective action, meaningful change is not only possible, but inevitable.
As the sun set after another successful boat and beach event, the spirit of community and empowerment remained. For participants, volunteers and organizers, the event served as a reminder of what can be accomplished when people come together with compassion, determination and a common purpose.
In the words of Jay Van Vechten, visionary and inspiring generation after generation, “Never postpone joy,” and the Boat & Beach Bash embodies this spirit, offering all attendees a day of celebration, connection and endless possibility.
Related article
Join us for a beach clean-up in Antibes
Global yacht brokerage Fraser has partnered with marine conservation foundation Plastic Oceans to hold a beach clean-up on Sunday from 10.30am to 1pm.
Las Olas closed on the beach
Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale (between Seabreeze Boulevard and A1A) was closed on April 9 due to road work and construction. The closure is expected to last “until …
FLIBS reports more people and boats
This year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show attracted about 105,000 buyers, sellers and browsers, a 7 percent increase over last year’s attendance, the company said.
topic:
Source link