Two nonprofits find each other
Karting mission has a new home
How do you make a good thing better? Teaming up with another good thing is a nice start.
That’s the case with Rocky Grimes’ go-kart field of dreams and a new partnership with a Logan County nonprofit in need of a reboot. By teaming up, Grimes gets some permanency to outfit his disabled clientele with life-changing experiences and foster-care agency Adriel School Inc. gets new use for its troubled property in West Liberty.
Grimes was the subject of a Dispatch story a year ago, reporting on his passion for providing unimagined thrills for those with developmental and physical disabilities by customoutfitting go-karts, bicycles and other wheeled vehicles for their special needs. The resulting experiences are therapeutic with carryover to other aspects of their lives, but Grimes struggled to fuel his passion while supporting his family.
As word of Grimes’ work spread, backing for his mission grew and he was brought into contact with a board member of Adriel, which had shut down its West Chester group home due to challenges with staff and the troubled youth it served at that location. Now the expansive property is home to Grimes’ work and his family, including his wife and two daughters. The girls, aged 11 and 16, help their dad modify bikes and carts, making Grimes’ Heart of Unlimited Boundaries nonprofit a true family affair.
Adriel operates with a favorable reputation in half of Ohio’s counties since its founding in 1900, but for the troubles at the former group home at its West Chester state headquarters. For both Adriel CEO Todd Hanes and Grimes, the serendipitous match is a great start for the New Year.
Adriel CEO Todd Hanes is just as happy as Grimes with the opportunity to find exciting new use for the rural property and serve local residents with developmental disabilities.
Even better, Grimes sees potential to grow his offerings to take advantage of the 42-acres’ assets, such as a greenhouse, and add features including a climbing wall accessible to all.
For both Adriel and Grimes, the serendipitous match is a great start for the New Year.