Team EKA

http://disability.com/team.html (PC Press Internet CD, 03/1996)

Team EKA

TEAMWORK THAT EMPOWERS

A team of nearly 49 million men, women and children living, working, raising families, seeking an education and achieving their goals. An unbeatable team.

These are Americans with disabilities: the members of our families, our neighbors, co-workers and friends. In reality, the bench for our team is even bigger. It includes all people who share a vision of America that is inclusive, competitive and encourages each of us to excel in whatever we set out to do. The emphasis is on human potential.

Team EKA was born with a clear mission. Our aim is to tap this human potential and to develop new and very practical strategies for empowerment of people with disabilities. As a nonprofit organization, we work closely with companies, foundations, self-help groups and communities to take the lead in designing projects and funding ideas that promote independence and set meaningful goals.

Our Team Will Be Found Everywhere:

On the playing field, by supporting children's sports and organized play.

In the workplace, by collaborating with entrepreneurs to bring new ideas and products for consumers with disabilities to the market.

In the community, by spurring new programs and services for independent and active living.

At the Olympic and Paralympic Games, by encouraging and supporting gifted athletes to go for the gold.

Team EKA: A Simple Idea With A Universe of Possibilities

We have much in common with the rest of society. We are innately curious, highly motivated, and often challenged to find solutions in our lives. With and without disabilities, we strive for independence and to expand our choices at home and in our work. Team EKA celebrates what all of us have in common: the quest for independence and the sense of community.

Team EKA: Putting The Team Together

Team EKA began as the brainchild of Evan Kemp Associates Inc., whose principals combine over 75 years of public service and experience on disability issues and public policy. The Honorable Evan J. Kemp, Jr., served as chairman of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and is often considered one of the fathers of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act.

Team EKA is today a multi-faceted project of the nonprofit Disability Rights Center, founded a decade ago to serve and enhance the rights of people with disabilities. Within this partnership, Team EKA/DRC operates as a 501(c)(3) organization and may accept tax-deductible contributions from individuals, companies, associations and foundations.

Team EKA: A Broad Umbrella With Four Primary Activities

Independence and Empowerment Programs

The Equal Access Center for Independence was created to design and promote model independent living programs -- working alongside community leaders and groups to solve problems and develop practical solutions.

Athletic and Recreation Programs for Adult and Children With Disabilities

Across the region, Team EKA will take the lead in organizing and encouraging team sports for young and older athletes. We will emphasize wheelchair sports and organized efforts, like "Winners on Wheels" that encourage self-esteem, parental freedom, teamwork and achievement.

Athletes With Disabilities

Amateur athletes often depend on friends and sponsors to support their rigorous training regimen and ensure they are able to combine competition with the demands of their family and daily lives. Athletes with disabilities and outstanding Paralympians like wheelchair racing wonder, Cisco Jeter, also depend on sponsors to achieve their aims. Team EKA will recognize and work closely with a hand-picked team of athletes to help them realize their dreams for national and international competition.

Scholarship and Entrepreneurial Grants

Good ideas and bright innovators need incubation and support. Team EKA will make grants, scholarships and stipends to college level students and/or entrepreneurs who demonstrate strong promise and worthy initiatives. We will offer seed money to nourish intelligent and well-conceived dreams.