California Pools of Hope, a nonprofit organization in Long Beach, is hosting a five lap Aqua Walk for the Annual Evelyn DuPont Swim Show & Circle of Hope Aqua Walk on Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is being put on “to celebrate the health improvements of the elderly and disabled persons who participate in the organization’s aquatic therapy and exercise programs.”
This is the first year that California Pools of Hope is having the Aqua Walk. Participants are encouraged to join forces with family members and friends to form teams and local companies are also encouraged to participate.
The event is a fundraiser and will include prizes, music, and food.
“You don’t want to miss this inspiring event,” said Pat Dixon, California Pools of Hope’s executive director, “California Pools of Hope is a gift to the community, and this is a great opportunity to see how our aquatic exercise program is improving the lives of many people.”
California Pools of Hope is the only facility of its kind, located in the North Long Beach area and has served physically compromised children and adults for over 40 years. The aquatic programs provided are especially beneficial to seniors and to children with conditions such as spina bifida, cerebral palsy and autism.
Aquatic exercise and therapy programs are ideally suited for populations with special needs because of the reduced chance of injury, says Dixon.
The buoyancy provided by the water supports the weight of the patient and decreases the force of stress placed on the joints. The viscosity of water is also important because it provides resistance allowing for muscle strengthening without weights.
Though admission is free, registration for the Circle of Hope Aqua Walk is $15 per adult and $7.50 per child. Registration forms are available at California Pools of Hope, located at 6801 Long Beach Boulevard in Long Beach or online at www.californiapoolsofhope.org.
For more information, call Pat Dixon at (310) 293-7335.
