RELEASE: STATE SENATE TO OFFICIALLY HONOR THE BOUNDLESS WASHINGTON OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES
4.5.2021
OLYMPIA—Today at noon the Washington State Senate will officially recognize the importance of the Washington State Leadership Board’s outdoor leadership program for young people with disabilities, Boundless Washington, with a Floor Resolution.
Each year, students are chosen for the two-year program based on their demonstrated sense of service and leadership skills.
Senator Claire Wilson, who sponsored the Floor Resolution, said of the program:
“Representation matters, and access, opportunity and voice are critical. That’s why I’m honoring the Boundless Washington program, which provides a unique opportunity for youth with disabilities through leadership development training and access to outdoor education. By raising awareness about opportunities like this, I hope other young people with disabilities can see themselves becoming leaders in their communities.”
Boundless Washington has gained the support of prominent local sports teams, including the Seattle Storm and the Seattle Mariners. In 2019, the Seattle Storm testified before the State Legislature in support of the program.
“We are thrilled to support the resolution recognizing Boundless Washington, and proud to have partnered with the Office of the Lt. Governor and the Washington State Leadership board on this important work,” said Alisha Valavanis, Storm CEO and General Manager. “These programs are directly aligned with the mission and values of the Storm, as they aim to encourage youth to be active, empower youth to develop leadership skills, and promote equity, opportunity and inclusion.”
“One of the commitments the Seattle Mariners have made to our community is to increase youth participation in physical activity, remove barriers and build a culture of inclusion. We are proud to partner with the Washington State Leadership Board and Boundless Washington to promote access for all youth and inspire youth of all abilities to become leaders in our community,” said Fred Rivera, Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President and General Counsel.
In addition to recognizing the importance of the Boundless Washington program, the Senate Floor Resolution specifically commends each of the twelve Boundless Washington fellows by name. The Resolution was made just before April 7th, World Health Day, to recognize the importance of including people with disabilities in the state’s efforts to promote health.
“We are thrilled to see our program being recognized in this way,” said Washington State Leadership Board Chair Nick Bumpaous. “We could not be more proud of our students. They are showing our state what true leadership, advocacy, and service looks like.”
The Boundless Washington program is administered by the Washington State Leadership Board, a statutory non-profit organization, through a partnership with the Washington State Lieutenant Governor’s office. The program’s outdoor excursions are delivered by the Outdoors For All Foundation, and will include accessible kayaking, hiking, skiing, and camping when the spread of the coronavirus has subsided. The program’s leadership training was designed using the nationally-recognized No Barriers USA leadership curriculum.
For more information, visit www.BoundlessWA.org.
