1975

HSA (Handicapped Scuba Association)

California, USA

Founded in 1975 by James A. F. Gatacre, Handicapped Scuba Association first conducted its research programme at the University of California-Irvine (UCI) focusing on changing the false perception of persons with disabilities and organising programmes for disabled scuba diving students with those who aren’t. Participants were required to perform all physical performance standards for Scuba certification, even if they had to do them differently. Nevertheless, the programme resulted in everyone, with and without disabilities, growing in immeasurable ways and living fuller and more exciting lives.

The Handicapped Scuba Association has dedicated itself to improving the physical and social well-being of people with disabilities through the sport of scuba diving. Made up of over 4,000 underwater educators, scuba divers with disabilities and supporting members, located in over 45 countries, the Handicapped Scuba Association is dedicated to ensuring that people with disabilities are given the same opportunity to receive quality training, certification and dive adventures as the able-bodied population.

Location in Asia: China