Overview

ParaSport Ontario (PO) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1981 and incorporated in 1988. PO has two member Provincial Organizations whose designated representatives are part of the PO Board of Directors. -Ontario Cerebral Palsy Sports Association (OCPSA) -ParaGolf Ontario Other PSO's that are members of PO and offer a parasport component to their sports are: -Ontario Association of Archers -Ontario Curling Council -Ontario Soccer -Swim Ontario In addition to the member organizations, PO partners with eight other PSO's in organizing the Ontario ParaSport Games: -Ontario Sledge Hockey Association -Alpine Ontario Para Race Team -Ontario Curling Council -Cross Country Ontario -Swim Ontario -Ontario Therapeutic Riding Association -Ontario Lawn Bowls Association -Athletics Ontario A volunteer Board of Directors, that includes the Presidents or designated representatives of the two member Provincial/Multi-Sport Associations, governs the Organization. Sub-Committees of the Board include Sport Development; Evening for Inclusion; Fundraising and Nominating Committee. PO affiliates numerous ParaSport Clubs and more than 1800 athletes (inclusive of ParaGolf Ontario and OCPSA) on a yearly basis. These athletes are given the opportunity to compete in Regional and Provincial-level competitions. PO works in collaboration with Host Communities and 12 Provincial MSO's and PSO's in delivering Summer and Winter Multi-ParaSport Games as well as ParaSport Expos. PO is very proud of its development programs that include “Ready Willing and Able” and the Equipment Loan Program. Through these programs, PO delivers introductory sport sessions to athletes, coaches and officials throughout Ontario, and partners with communities to develop new ParaSport Clubs. PO also works with Ontario municipalities to promote awareness of parasports by conducting informative “try me” sessions in high schools, public schools, universities, colleges and to the business community.