“NEW” ALL-TERRAIN WHEELCHAIR RENTAL PROGRAM
What is a GRIT Freedom Chair?
The GRIT Freedom Chair is an All-Terrain Wheelchair (A.T.W.) designed to tackle natural surface trails, grass, tree roots and uneven terrain. The A.T.W. is a manual chair, equipped with levers that make the chair easier to propel, so persons can get the leverage they need to conquer obstacles. The chair also has push bars so that a friend or family member can provide some assistance if necessary. The A.T.W. has a rugged 3-wheeled frame, which keeps the user stable and in control. Mountain bike tires are able to easily handle rough terrain. The chair also has a comfortable seat and footrests. In addition, the GRIT Freedom Chair disassembles and can fit into the trunk of a small car.
The Licking Park District presently has (2) A.T.W.s available for rent AT NO COST. The GRIT Junior is designed for youth weighing under 200 lbs. The GRIT Spartan is designed for teens and adults weighing up to 350 lbs. Each chair cost approximately $5,000.00.
Why did the Licking Park District invest in GRIT Freedom Chairs?
If you are an able-bodied person, you most likely do not have to give much thought to going for a hike with friends or family members. It’s simple… put on your shoes, pack a snack, grab your water bottle and hit the trails. Getting some fresh air, exercising and taking in all that nature has to offer is something you may take for granted. I know that I sure do.
Now, close your eyes and imagine that you or your child can no longer use their legs. Or perhaps, you are not able to walk any sort of distance due to injury or medical condition. The world as you knew it just may have become a little bit smaller. Joining your friends for a hike across uneven or steep terrain may be just about impossible. Afterall, normal wheelchairs are NOT meant for dirt trails, tree roots, rocks and uneven terrain.
The Licking Park District hopes that by providing All-Terrain Wheelchairs to persons with lower body challenges, persons will be able to more easily experience nature, go on hikes with friends and family, and participate in programs that may be offered in a park or on a trail. Experiences like these lead to nature education, relaxation, socialization and exercise. Simply put, we want to change some lives!
Please call our office at 740-587-2535 to make a reservation.
Reservations are taken on a first come – first served basis and may be made no sooner than 7-days in advance. Reservation must be made at least 24-hours in advance of the requested rental date to allow for staff planning. Our office will start taking reservations beginning APRIL 15, 2024.
At the present time, rental days/times are available as follows:
Weekdays: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Saturdays & Sundays: All-day rental. Renter will pick up equipment on Friday between 4:30 pm and 5:00 pm. Renter will return equipment on Monday between 8:00 am and 8:30 am.
Renters must complete an “All-Terrain Rental Agreement”. The agreement includes a number of terms and a liability release. Renter must provide their driver license or state identification card to staff.
The A.T.W.s are located in our office, located at 4309 Lancaster Rd., Granville, OH 43023. Chairs can be picked up and returned to this address. Office hours are 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday thru Friday.
At the present time, chairs can only be used at Infirmary Mound Park (4351 Lancaster Rd., Granville, OH 43023).
Yes, riders are required to wear a helmet. Riders are responsible for providing their own helmet.
All minor riders (under the age of eighteen), MUST be accompanied by their parent/legal guardian during equipment use.
The Licking Park District recommends that all riders “hike” with a friend or family member. Riders may need assistance while on the trail, regardless of their physical condition. Avoid steep inclines and declines, as well as bodies of water. Always carry a phone with you.
Do you want to help us change some lives?
The Licking Park District has partnered with the Licking County Foundation in an effort to raise more funds so that additional All-Terrain Wheelchairs can be purchased. All donations are tax deductible to the allowable extent of the law. Below are three easy ways to donate:
U.S. Mail
Please make your check payable to the “Licking County Foundation” ℅: Licking Park District – All-Terrain Wheelchair Fund. Mail your check to the Licking County Foundation | P.O. Box 4212 | Newark, OH 43058-4212.
Visit
https://thelcfoundation.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3706
Scan
Thank you to our generous donors!
Ohio Parks & Recreation Association Foundation $2,500.00 Bronze Level Sponsor