From custom chairs to accessible playground equipment for schools, The Kids’ Project delivers high-quality, adaptive equipment that is made with care by talented volunteers who rise to the occasion time after time.
So when Jeremy Lucas, The Kids' Project director, received a phone call from Michelle Chumsae, who wanted to know if the program could design and build her son an adaptive snow sled for his fifth birthday, Lucas didn't hesitate to say yes.
“I love outdoor activities. So when Michelle explained the situation, it piqued my interest,” Lucas said.
Chumsae's son, Miles, is a sweet, playful young boy who was born with Down syndrome. Throughout his young life he has already faced enormous challenges.
“He has severe hypotonia (low muscle tone) throughout his entire body, making seating options for him with adequate support very difficult to come by. In addition, he also lives with multiple seizure disorder,” said his mother.
Like all children, he looks forward to his birthday. Each year, 
his wintry party includes friends, family, food and sledding. But Miles hasn't yet been able to fully participate in all of the fun.
As she planned this year's party, Chumsae wanted to find a way for Miles to be more involved in activities. She wanted to find a solution to the challenges around Miles’ ability to go sledding. She knew that with a sled that was adapted to meet Miles’ unique needs, rather than watch his friends have fun sledding at his party, Miles could be an active participant
To turn Chumsae's vision into reality, a team of five volunteers of The Kids’ Project designed and built the sled that features the support that meets Miles’ specific needs. The sled was funded by The Dream Factory. A few days ago, Miles, his support team and the volunteers met to determine what – if any – adjustments need to be made so the sled will be ready for his party in February.
Miles is excited and so are we. We will follow up with photos from Miles’ fifth birthday party sometime next month. Sign up for our eNewsletter and the story will come directly to your inbox.
The Kids' Project provides affordable, high-quality adaptive equipment made with care by talented volunteer woodworkers and upholsterers. The Kids' Project adaptive equipment is comparable to top-of-the-line items at 40 to 75% below commercial prices. Adaptive equipment helps children with special needs become more actively involved in the world around them. Being more involved increased self-esteem, promotes a greater sense of self-worth and increases success at home, in school and in therapy settings.
Pine Tree Society helps Maine people lead richer, more socially connected lives. We share a spirit of innovation and desire to discover new ways to break down barriers that many find insurmountable. It started as a bold new idea in 1936 and it continues every day. To learn more, please visit www.pinetreesociety.org.
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