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Amidst the tropical splendor of Coconut Grove, where Vita at Grove Isle resides in tranquil seclusion, a remarkable endeavor thrives — Shake-a-Leg Miami. This pioneering organization harnesses the rejuvenating power of sailing and water sports to nurture the health, education, and independence of children and adults facing physical, developmental, or economic challenges.
Shake-a-Leg Miami's origins can be traced back to a fateful moment for the organization’s founder, Harry Horgan, an avid sailor whose life took an unexpected turn after a car accident at age 22 left him paralyzed. Some time after the accident, Horgan was introduced to adaptive sports, which allows for modifications and equipment that make it possible for people with disabilities to participate in a variety of sporting activities. And then, on a skiing trip in Colorado, he experienced a euphoric sense of freedom gliding down a mountain, forgetting his disability momentarily.
This transformative experience sparked a lifelong mission — to recreate that feeling of limitless possibilities for others facing physical challenges. Originally based in Newport, Rhode Island, Horgan conceived of an innovative program that would utilize the therapeutic powers of the marine environment. In 1990, with the backing of Miami’s philanthropic community, Horgan made the pivotal decision to relocate Shake-a-Leg to South Florida. The region's favorable year-round climate allowed him to host programs with minimal weather disruptions.
Central to Shake-a-Leg Miami is its fully accessible three-story facility and a fleet of 10 sailboats designed and modified to accommodate a wide range of disabilities. This fleet includes the pioneering 20-foot Freedom Independence sailboats, vessels specifically engineered to launch Shake-a-Leg's innovative programming for individuals with physical challenges. Another standout is the 60-foot Impossible Dream catamaran, a universally accessible vehicle that can be fully operated by a person in a wheelchair.
Complementing the sailboat fleet are 30 kayaks, including three Creating Abilities adaptive models recently donated by The Way Forward. These kayaks feature specialized seating and outrigger systems, providing lateral stability and customizable support to allow paddlers with disabilities to participate equally and independently alongside family and friends. A fleet of chase boats ensures safety, accompanying sailors and children on all their expeditions.
Programming at Shake-a-Leg Miami ranges from the Marine Academy Summer Camp, teaching sailing, kayaking, and marine science, to the renowned We Can Sail program, pairing children with disabilities with dedicated high school-aged mentors for a fun day of empowering water activities. Adults with disabilities can hone vocational skills through the comprehensive boat maintenance and repair classes, delving into woodworking, engine repair, and the intricate art of boat restoration.
Shake-a-Leg Miami's impact reverberates through the lives it touches, serving over 8,800 individuals annually across a spectrum of ages and abilities. Its inclusive approach fosters independence, confidence, and fitness through sailing, paddling, and a myriad of recreational and educational programs. The organization has left an indelible mark, hosting the prestigious World Blind Sailing Championships in 1999 and rallying community support to rebuild after Hurricane Irma's devastation in 2017. Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Shake-a-Leg Miami adapted, offering modified summer camps to provide therapeutic water-based activities.
Discover luxurious island living and infinite opportunities for aquatic adventures by scheduling a visit to Vita at Grove Isle today.