For the past three years, Toni Jackson of New Perspective Fitness has been a community partner for Madison House’s recreational therapy fitness program, which teaches people of all abilities how to lift and have a great time exercising. During the academic year, the program runs twice a week and has between three to five Madison House volunteers working with seven special athletes at each session.
Jackson has been lifting since the age of 16, when her passion was established after an experience with an abusive relationship. Not only did this push her to “not want to be a victim to anybody,” it also “grew into wanting to help others feel empowered and to be confident,” says Jackson. No matter one’s ability, she wants each and every person to be able to take care of themselves and feel safe doing so. She believes that gaining physical strength in a gym setting can translate to many other areas of life, such as mental toughness and courage in pursuing one’s goals.
Madison House volunteers act as hands-on assistants with the special needs athletes. “It’s a win-win for our community because these athletes are getting to interact with students from all over the U.S., and the students are also getting to learn how it is to interact with someone who has special needs,” says Jackson. The program is collaborative, and the volunteers and Jackson work together to support athletes in learning new movements and achieving their fitness aspirations. These close-knit relationships are invaluable, and volunteers carry their experiences with them.
One of Jackson’s favorite parts about the program is witnessing the special athlete gain familiarity with specific exercises and be able to in turn teach them to other athletes. She recounts a particular instance when she asked a special athlete, Pete, to perform an RDL, or Romanian deadlift, and he executed it flawlessly. Having become an expert in the movement, Pete was able to guide a fellow athlete who does not have a disability through the motion with proper technique. In that moment, Jackson felt fulfilled and knew that the program was making a difference in people’s lives.
“People think they can’t do certain things because they have disabilities.…Even though they have Down syndrome or might be on the spectrum, [the program’s special athletes] can probably outlift and outmaneuver anybody,” says Jackson while beaming with pride. Watching the progression of these special athletes over the years is a memorable and rewarding experience that brings joy to every person involved. Through a shared dedication to fitness, this program unites people of all abilities to follow their passions.
“Keep an open mind and don’t assume that because somebody has a disability it means they are unable to accomplish their goals, whether that is fitness or day-to-day interactions,” says Jackson. She is pleased to work with the enthusiastic and communicative Madison House volunteers who embrace this mindset and help fulfill the objectives of this program. The special athletes grow and excel every single week, and Jackson is excited about the future of the Recreational Therapy program and continuing to work alongside exceptional Madison House volunteers.
Author: Cattie Li
