IT IS THE PHILOSOPHY OF GLIDING STARS TO USE THE SPORT OF ICE-SKATING FOR PHYSICAL, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL GROWTH OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES. Through ice-skating, people can achieve the physical benefits of improved posture, fine and gross motor coordination, strengthened muscles and improved balance and coordination. A social and recreational activity, the instructional program also brings people
with and without disabilities together in a team-oriented, helping environment. This develops increased confidence and social skills on the part of the skaters, which carries over positively into other areas of their lives. The achievement of progressive goals in this warm and emotionally supportive atmosphere creates a positive self-image that enhances the quality of life and the participant’s ability to succeed in other life situations. The ages of skaters range from 18 months to 73 years. Types of disabilities include, but are not limited to: cerebral palsy, spina bifida, sensory impairments including blindness and hearing impairments/deafness, learning disabilities, mental retardation, developmental disabilities, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, heart transplant, congenital myopathy, speech impairments, hemophilia, amputation, William’s Syndrome, cancer, scoliosis, down syndrome, autism, neurological impairments, congenital heart defects, epilepsy, seizure disorders, emotional disabilities and multiple disabilities. An overall average of 1.8 volunteers are engaged in assisting each skater in the program, creating a significant volunteer force that propels the organization in each local community. A critical component of the Gliding Stars philosophy is to create an atmosphere of love and warmth, with caring, sensitive people in a fun environment.
