Corn Hill Navigation Awarded $34,000 Grant from the Golisano Foundation to Develop Inclusive Accessibility Programs for Riverie and Sam Patch Tour Boats
Summary
The grant will enable a thorough review of the organizations procedures, vessels, website and programming to ensure that all residents and visitors have access to guided tours of Rochesters historic waterways just in time for the canals 200th Anniversary in 2025.Patrick Russell-Walsh, Corn Hill Waterfront and Navigation Foundation executive director said, The support of the Golisano Foundation will enable us to collaborate with Rochester Accessible Adventures Inclusive Partnership program to develop a comprehensive approach to inclusion practices, outreach and programming that will assure a welcoming environment for our guests with intellectual and developmental disabilities on board Riverie and Sam Patch.Erica Dayton, executive director of the Golisano Foundation, said, We are pleased to provide this grant to Corn Hill Navigation so that it may bring its exciting experiences to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. Enhancing access to Corn Hill Navigations diverse roster of programs and voyages will open new doors to joy and enrichment for many in our community who have previously been unable to enjoy and experience our regions beautiful historic waterways.The unique and historic waterways of the Rochester region have been part of an exciting momentum over the past decade to ensure equitable access by people with disabilities. We are thrilled that Corn Hill Navigation is now on an inclusion journey, embarking on what will be a dynamic implementation of strategic enhancements to intentionally engage people living with disabilities. Launched in 1991, the boats mission is to increase awareness of Rochesters waterways through guided tours along the Erie Canal, educate students, and host events contributing to the regions cultural landscape and tourism. Its mission is to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in on-the-water experiential learning and foster the preservation and improvement of the Erie Canal and Genesee River for future generations.