Community Foundation of Dickinson County
The Community Foundation of Dickinson County is proud to announce a $585 grant to support the expansion of the Bal-A-Vis-X program facilitated through Neighbor to Neighbor Abilene. This funding will be used exclusively to purchase essential equipment and materials, enabling more community members to access this transformative brain-body coordination therapy at no cost.
Bal-A-Vis-X (Balance, Auditory, Vision eXercises) is a series of evidence-based exercises that improve coordination, focus, memory, and executive function. For years, community volunteer Tom Schwartz has offered one-on-one Bal-A-Vis-X sessions to individuals ranging in age from children to seniors, including those recovering from strokes, brain injuries, and neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s.
With additional trainers soon to be certified, including elementary school educators and community volunteers, the program is poised to significantly expand its reach. The Foundation’s support will provide critical supplies, including balance boards, beanbags, specialized balls, and instructional materials, that will equip the newly trained practitioners to offer sessions in schools and community spaces across Abilene.
Elizabeth Weese, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Dickinson County, states, “By supporting this grassroots health and wellness initiative with grant dollars, we are helping individuals of all ages improve their physical coordination, cognitive processing, and overall well-being.”
All services are provided at no charge, and volunteers offer their time to ensure access is available regardless of income. With the new equipment in place, more individuals will have the opportunity to benefit from this empowering, restorative practice. For more information about Bal-A-Vis-X, please contact Neighbor to Neighbor at 785.200.6750.
For more information about the Foundation’s grant programs or to support initiatives like this one, visit www.communityfoundation.us.
