OPAF announces scholarship recipient

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 25, 2004
Contact: Julie A. Besaha
Director of Operations
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - OPAF is proud to announce that Michelle J. Hall will be first individual to receive an award from the scholarship program associated with the OPAF Dale Yasukawa Memorial Fund.

Hall will receive her award during the 2004 Business Meeting of the Midwest Chapter, to be held at noon on June 5, 2004 in Milwaukee.

Hall distinguished herself from other applicants in stating through her application that "orthotists and prosthetists have a unique opportunity to help those with disabilities to lead more active lives and take part in their communities. It is my goal to treat the broadest spectrum of persons with disabilities, and ultimately lead them to the attainment of an active and independent life."

The Dale Yasuakwa Memorial Fund was established at OPAF in November 2001 in the name of Dale Yasukawa CP. Yasukawa, who died on November 22, 2001 at the age of 43, served as director of prosthetics at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) in the department of prosthetic-orthotic clinical services. He began his work with RIC in 1988 as a physical therapy aid. In 1990, he joined the O&P clinical services department, and in 1991 Yasukawa attended the Northwestern University prosthetics certificate program. He became an ABC-certified prosthetist in 1993 and throughout his career worked with patients of all ages - children, young adults, and geriatrics. Yasukawa was involved in the Midwest Chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists for over seven years, completing his service as immediate past president in 2001.

In cooperation with Linda Yasukawa, PT, MS, OPAF created a scholarship program connected to Dale's memorial fund.

The scholarship program is currently open to all full-time degree candidates enrolled in Northwestern University's Prosthetic Orthotic Center (NUPOC) during the fall 2003 and spring 2004 terms. The chief purpose of the scholarship is to encourage student participation in the annual meeting of the Midwest Chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP). It is expected that the award will be used specifically to defray Midwest Chapter meeting registration fees and assist in the purchasing of books, supplies, and equipment needed for ongoing studies at NUPOC.

OPAF will award one $500 scholarship each fiscal year.

As the Memorial Fund grows through future contributions, its associated scholarship program will expand to recognize the continued support of OPAF's founders: the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABC), and American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA). The future scholarship program will be open to all full-time students enrolled in O&P Programs accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Scholarship recipients will be expected to use their awards to defray fees incurred toward:

• AAOP Annual Meeting registration;
• AOPA National Assembly registration;
• registration for annual meetings of state and regional AAOP chapters and AOPA associations and societies; and
• registration for the ABC certification examinations.
  

For more information about the Dale Yasukawa Memorial Fund and its associated scholarship program, and/or or make a donation, please visit this web site or contact the Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440 Washington, DC 20006. Tel (202) 223-2878. Email rlb@opfund.org

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OPAF to receive proceeds from upcoming Primefare golf tournament

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 11, 2004
Contact: Julie A. Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The PrimeCare O&P Network will host its Fifth annual PrimeFare seminar and Third PrimeFare Golf Tournament at the Nashville Convention Center and Renaissance Hotel in Nashville, TN June 3rd - 5th. The golf tournament has been re-christened the Ronney Snell Memorial Golf Tournament in honor of Ralph (Ronney) R. Snell, CPO, FAAOP, a respected and beloved former member of the O&P community. It will be held June 3, 2004, at Nashville's Springhouse Golf Club. Proceeds from this event will be donated to the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF). Proceeds from the 2003 tournament yielded a $2,700 donation to OPAF.

OPAF thanks the PrimeCare O&P Network for their continued generosity and ongoing support.

A traveling trophy will be surrendered by last year's winners, and presented to the 2004 tournament winners at a Friday evening reception sponsored by Boston Brace.

The PrimeFare seminar classroom sessions, meetings and workshops have been expanded this year to include a pedorthic curriculum and a curriculum with workshop for O&P techs. The popular administrative track returns, with classes on billing and coding, managing accounts receivable, and a new administrative round table. This year's classes offer a total of 56 CEU's, with 12 prosthetic credits, 12 orthotic credits, 12 pedorthic credits, or 12 tech credits possible, and the remainder in concurrent administrative credits.

"We're very pleased to be returning to our popular Nashville location for the seminar," said PrimeCare President Catherine Griffith. "And thanks to our great group of generous sponsors--like Fillauer, Boston Brace, P.W. Minor and others--the growth of our annual seminar is keeping pace with the continuing growth of the Network."

This year's sessions include speakers from Becker Orthopedic, Cascade DAFO, Fab-Tech, Fillauer, Jim Smith Sales, National Pedorthic Services, OTS, Ohio Willow Wood, Otto Bock, SPS, Ti-Med and more.

For more information about the seminar, please contact Jane Edwards, Account Manager and/or Cathie Griffith, President, PrimeCare O&P Network, LLC at 888-388-5243, or visit the PrimeCare website at www.primecareop.com.

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OPAF represents O&P and helps federal workers answer President's call to service

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2004
Contact: Julie A. Besaha
(202) 223-2878

OPAF recently participated in a Volunteer Fair hosted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Organizers of the event invited local and national nonprofit organizations to present USDA employees with volunteer opportunities as part of USDA's campaign to inform and encourage every employee to participate in the President's call to service.

In his 2002 State of the Union address, President Bush called upon every American to become involved in strengthening America's communities. Every American, he said, should make a lifetime commitment of at least two years (4000 hours) of service to others.

Approximately 200 USDA employees attended the Volunteer Fair, the majority of whom visited the OPAF table to learn more about the official philanthropy of the U.S. O&P community and its mission to enable individuals with physical disabilities - especially those served by members of the O&P community - to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction. Of all the organizations in attendance, OPAF was the only organization from the O&P community and the only organization providing direct-service programs to individuals with physical disabilities. The occasion provided OPAF with a tremendous opportunity to reach and inform new audiences about the fields of O&P and public service in the name the O&P community.
Secretary of Agriculture Ann M. Veneman presented OPAF with a Certificate of Appreciation and thanked OPAF and the other organizations for their service to the community and for creating opportunities for others to serve.

OPAF welcomes invitations to participate in events like the USDA fair. Through the OPAF Speaker Program, the organization also welcomes formal speaking engagements. Please contact Julie A. Besaha, OPAF Director of Operations, for more information about OPAF, the OPAF Speaker Program, and serving the community by becoming an OPAF volunteer, at 202-223-2878 or jab@opfund.org.

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OPAF recognizes fellow nonprofit organizations through grant program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2004
Contact: Julie A. Besaha
(202) 223-2878

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. (OPAF) is pleased to announce the 2004 recipients of awards made through the OPAF Grant Program.

Established in April 2002, the OPAF Grant Program enables the OPAF Board of Directors to evaluate completely the many requests for financial support it receives from nonprofit organizations that share OPAF's commitment to an enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities, especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community. Applications are due each year no later than September 1, for funding before November 30, and no later than January 1, for funding before April 1.

Complete information about the OPAF Grant Program is available here.

The grant competition was made possible in part through a contribution from Ohio Willow Wood. OPAF thanks Ohio Willow Wood for generously supporting this important initiative that helps to expand OPAF's formal representation of O&P community and philanthropic circles.

After a challenging evaluation process that involved several organizations seeking OPAF's support, the OPAF Board of Directors chose to provide modest financial assistance to two organizations: The Sports Group, Inc. and Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports.

Created in 2000 to provide quality sports programs to athletes from Oklahoma and beyond, The Sports Group, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts several disabled sporting events throughout the year for individuals with physical disabilities and children with special needs.

The Sports Group's first "endeavor" was the organization of the Endeavor Games, which was held for the first time in 2000. Since then, The Sports Group has added three more programs: the Hanger Oklahoma Amputee Golf Tournament; the Adaptive Baseball League of Edmond; and BlazeSports Clubs of America. Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports (www.vermontadaptive.org) is also 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to furthering the equality and independence of individuals with disabilities by providing access to sports and recreational activities.

Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports offers low-cost sports and recreation programs for people with physical disabilities and adapt teaching techniques and/or equipment to make the most of the strengths of the participants. Utilizing a small staff and hundreds of volunteers who know how to teach sports using adaptive methods, Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports offers programs in downhill skiing, horseback riding, sailing, snowboarding, rock climbing, water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking.

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OPAF teams with Austin Grill for January 5 benefit dinner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 16, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Have dinner at Austin Grill on Monday, January 5 and help the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund Give Wings to Dreams!

After the holidays, meet your friends and colleagues for a great dinner at Austin Grill to support the community-service programs of the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF), the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community.

OPAF's mission is to enable individuals with physical disabilities to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction. Everyone is welcome! To participate, arrive at Austin Grill in downtown Washington, DC anytime after 5:00 pm, sign the back of your check to indicate that you are with OPAF, and 33% of your bill will be donated to the organization.

Austin Grill downtown is located at 750 E Street NW, 20005. Please see map attached here. Nearest Metro Stations: Archives/Navy Memorial on the Yellow and Green Lines, one and a half blocks south of restaurant, or Gallery Place/Chinatown on the Red, Yellow, and Green Lines, two blocks north of the restaurant.

For driving directions, call Austin Grill at (202) 393-3776 or use MapQuest with the address and zip code noted above.

Click here to download a flyer with complete details. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this flyer. If you do not have this program installed on your browser, you can download it here for free.

Thank you for your support! Enjoy the holiday season!
We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

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OPAF second annual open house a success

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The second annual open house of the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) was a great success.

Guests included OPAF president Don E. Hardin, past president Joel Kempfer, CP, FAAOP, vice president Michael Burton, and treasurer Jinsook Han, as well as two of the organizations newest directors Jennifer Fayter and Jim Lagerstrom.

OPAF also welcomed many friends and representatives from several nonprofit and for-profit organizations in the greater Washington, DC area. Thanks to everyone, and especially to members of the OPAF board of directors, for their participation in this event and for their continued support of OPAF's mission to enable individuals with physical disabilities - especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community - to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

OPAF is tremendously grateful to O&P Business News for their generous sponsorship of this event. Thank you! A table at the open house displayed literature of the O&P community, including ABC and NCOPE resources and copies of the Academy's brochure about O&P careers, which directs individuals to the O&P Careers web site: www.opcareers.org developed by the Joint Committee on O&P Awareness. Thanks also to all raffle and silent auction item donors, whose support enabled OPAF to raise nearly $650.00 for program development in the new year:

Austin Grill
Baltimore Orioles
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream
Blockbuster Inc.
William Bruno, J.D., of American Express Financial Advisors
Cosi
Hart Hotels Inc.
Indique
The Melting Pot
Brad Meltzer
MotoPhoto
St. Gregory Luxury Hotel and Suites of Washington, DC
Wyndham City Center Hotel

Public thanks are also due to OPAF's DC-area volunteers Allison Kletter and Debbie Kimmelman for their support of the raffle, silent auction, and all the day's activities and to OPAF interns Naoya Akabane, Natalie Kuntz, Hong Tu Vo, who under the able guidance of OPAF Program Coordinator Julie Besaha, organized the day so successfully. Be sure to read more about OPAF's fantastic interns in this month's issue of the O&P Almanac, the award-winning monthly magazine for the orthotics and prosthetics industry.

OPAF looks forward to its third annual open house and to the continued success of its direct-service programs in the new year.

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OPAF featured by The Foundation Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 2, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - This month, the DC branch of The Foundation Center spotlights OPAF, the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community.

Established in 1956, The Foundation Center is the nation's leading authority on philanthropy and is dedicated to serving grantseekers, grantmakers, researchers, policymakers, the media, and the general public.

The Center's spotlight on OPAF, combined with OPAF's profile earlier this year by Nonprofit Leader (the nation's #1 nonprofit sector online newsletter), its location in the heart of the U.S. nonprofit sector, and its membership in the Washington Council Agencies (the region's largest nonprofit association), testifies to OPAF reaching all new heights in its representation of O&P in community and philanthropic circles.

With such accomplishments alongside the organization's just-announced grant award from the Corporation for National and Community Service, OPAF is successfully communicating to the widest audience ever the importance of enabling individuals with physical disabilities to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

Please remember OPAF as you consider your year-end giving. All contributions to OPAF are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law, and annual sponsorships of OPAF, its programs, and its fundraisers are available to every individual, institution, and company inside and beyond the O&P community. For more information contact OPAF at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. (202) 223-2878, email, or visit the OPAF web site.

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OPAF wins federal grant to support DC Community Initiative

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 1, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. (OPAF) has received a grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service to support the Washington DC Community Initiative for 2004.

OPAF's receipt of this grant will enable the organization to continue the OPAF/MLK Community Service Project at The Hospital for Sick Children, a nonprofit hospital located in northeast Washington, DC that ensures access to quality rehabilitative and specialty services for infants, children, and youth with special needs and their families.

This program has seen great success during the past year thanks to generous cash donations received from the Morrison and Foerster Foundation and from the Ramsay Merriam Fund.

For this program OPAF plans bi-weekly educational activities engaging the subjects of peace, diversity, tolerance, and human rights as they are reflected in the words of Dr. King. Through the creation of this unique learning environment within the hospital setting, OPAF will help to bring young patients social interaction and degrees of learning and personal achievement that they might not otherwise encounter during the course of rehabilitation. This program will involve OPAF staff and interns, as well as the OPAF volunteer network in Washington, DC. Dates for this program will be listed shortly on OPAF's web site; please visit for more information.

Jeffrey Reznick, Ph.D., OPAF Executive Director and Senior Research Fellow commented, "We're looking forward to a great celebration of Dr. King's life this year, one that will reflect his commitment to service and bring his teachings to life among the children we serve here in Washington, DC."

"There is no better way to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. than by serving others," said James Manning, acting CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. "Dr. King once stated, 'Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.'"

OPAF is one of 100 nonprofit organizations and public agencies nationwide to be selected in a grant competition that recognizes community service related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday. The Corporation for National and Community Service provides opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds to serve their communities and country through three programs: Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America. Working with national and community nonprofits, faith-based groups, schools, and local agencies, the Corporation engages more than two million Americans each year in meeting critical needs in education, the environment, public safety, homeland security, and other areas. The Corporation and its programs are part of USA Freedom Corps, a White House initiative to foster a culture of citizenship, service and responsibility, and help all Americans answer the President's Call to Service.

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OPAF attends student conference at Smith College

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 11, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - As part of its official representation of O&P in community and philanthropic circles, the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) will be attending "Clear a Path to a Safer World: Addressing the Tragedy of Land Mines," a conference to be held this week, November 14-18, 2003, at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts.

This conference is sponsored by The Polus Center for Social and Economic Development, the Office of Mine Action Initiatives and Partnerships, US State Department, and Smith College.

OPAF's presentation to the 150+ students expected to attend (from 22 regional universities) will take place during the session entitled "Community Based Rehabilitation" (CBR). It will focus on the importance of empowering young people to make a difference in society, chiefly through public service to nonprofit organizations that serve individuals with disabilities. The presentation will also focus on the crucial goal of bringing more young people into the field of O&P, to grow the ranks of the profession so that its future success, prosperity, and vitality -- in the U.S. and overseas -- will be insured.

OPAF's involvement in this conference comes at the kind invitation of the The Polus Center. OPAF and The Polus Center have collaborated previously on a CBR-related public presentation sponsored by the Society for International Development, Washington, DC Chapter and on development of a Disability Leadership Institute to be affiliated with the University of Leon in Nicaragua, The Polus Center, international aid organizations, and local grassroots NGO's:

Complete information about the Smith conference, including registration information, can be found here. Registration is free. A schedule of conference events is available here, and a list of organizations registered for the conference is available here.

More information about CBR is available through this online article, written by the Executive Director of The Polus Center, Michael Lundquist.

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OPAF welcomes Ohio Willow Wood as gold sponsor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 10, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) is pleased to announce its newest annual gold sponsor from the O&P field, Ohio Willow Wood.

The generous support of Ohio Willow Wood enables OPAF to sustain its Internship Program, the OPAF Dale Yasukawa Memorial Fund, and the OPAF Paralymic Support Initiative. Complete information about these programs is available here.

Since 1907, Ohio Willow Wood has continuously sought new ways to improve quality of life for amputees, enabling new levels of freedom.

"Ohio Willow Wood is committed to improving the lives of amputees around the world through all that we do," said Mark Ford, Ohio Willow Wood's Director of Marketing. "By supporting the expanded programs of the OPAF, we firmly believe that we are working toward this mission."

OPAF is a 501(c)(3) public charity, the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community, established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, OPAF now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science and technology.

As a community-focused nonprofit organization, OPAF aims primarily to enable individuals with physical disabilities-especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community-to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

All contributions to OPAF are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law, and annual sponsorships of OPAF, its programs, and its fundraisers are available to every individual, institution, and company inside and beyond the O&P community. For more information about sponsorship opportunities contact OPAF at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. (202) 223-2878, email rlb@opfund.org, or visit the OPAF web site here.

For complete information about current OPAF programs, please contact our offices or visit www.opfund.org.

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You are cordially invited: OPAF to hold second annual open house

You are cordially invited
to the
SECOND ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE
of the
Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc.
in our home located at

1666 K Street NW, Suite 440 Washington, DC 20006

Friday, December 12, 2003 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Complete details are available here. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this invitation. If you do not have this program installed on your browser, you can download it here for free.

Join us to see our offices, meet new friends, and learn more about our primary mission: enable individuals with physical disabilities - especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community - to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction. Everyone is welcome!

Light refreshments will be served, raffles for exciting prizes will be held, and much fun will be had by all! Kindly RSVP before December 1 by email to rsvp@opfund.org

OPAF is a nonprofit organization, a 501(c)(3) public charity, and the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community.

We are located at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington DC, 20006 Nearest DC Metro Stations: Farragut North or Farragut West

OPAF thanks O&P Business News for their generous sponsorship of this event. Learn more about O&P Business News at www.oandpbiznews.com

OPAF also thanks raffle-prize donors, all of whom will be acknowledged formally during the run-up to the open house and at the event itself.

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OPAF publishes "Selected Accomplishments since October 1, 2002"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

OPAF is pleased to offer a one-page summary of the organization's accomplishments during the past year, since October 1, 2002. This report highlights OPAF's recent work in four key areas: direct-service and related initiatives, development (fundraising, grants, special events, etc.), publicity, and administration.

The summary is available for download here. You will need Adobe Acrobar Reader to view this document. If you do not have this program installed on your browser, you can download it here for free.

Thank you to everyone - OPAF's Board of Directors, its founders AAOP, ABC, and AOPA, its program partners, and its donors - for supporting the organization as it has grown in its representation of O&P in community and philanthropic circles. Without such generosity, OPAF would not have seen such success this year in touching the lives of so many individuals.

In the coming year, OPAF looks forward to working with more members of the O&P community to expand OPAF's direct-service programs further in order to achieve two key goals: reach more individuals who use prostheses and build more substantial connections to those who use orthoses. Your continued support of our work will help us attain our objectives and reach greater levels of direct public service. Thank you again.

If you are attending the upcoming AOPA National Assembly, please stop by our booth (#GS2) in the Grand Salon of the Reno Hilton to say hello and learn more about OPAF's recent accomplishments and plans for 2004 and beyond.

OPAF is a 501(c)(3) public charity, the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community, established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, OPAF now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science and technology.

As a community-focused nonprofit organization, OPAF aims primarily to enable individuals with physical disabilities-especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community-to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

All contributions to OPAF are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law, and annual sponsorships of OPAF, its programs, and its fundraisers are available to every individual, institution, and company inside and beyond the O&P community.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities contact OPAF at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. (202) 223-2878, email rlb@opfund.org, or visit http://www.opfund.org/support/index.html

For complete information about current OPAF programs, please contact our offices.

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OPAF launches O&P scholarship program as part of The Dale Yasukawa Memorial Fund

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 3, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - In November 2001, a memorial fund was established at OPAF in the name of Dale Yasukawa CP.

Yasukawa, who died on November 22, 2001 at the age of 43, served as director of prosthetics at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) in the department of prosthetic-orthotic clinical services. He began his work with RIC in 1988 as a physical therapy aid. In 1990, he joined the O&P clinical services department, and in 1991 Yasukawa attended the Northwestern University prosthetics certificate program. He became an ABC-certified prosthetist in 1993 and throughout his career worked with patients of all ages - children, young adults, and geriatrics. Yasukawa was involved in the Midwest Chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists for over seven years, completing his service as immediate past president in 2001.

In cooperation with Linda Yasukawa, PT, MS, OPAF has created a scholarship program connected to Dale's memorial fund.

This scholarship program is currently open to all full-time certificate candidates enrolled in Northwestern University's Prosthetic Orthotic Center (NUPOC) during the fall 2003 and spring 2004 terms. The chief purpose of the scholarship is to encourage student participation in the annual meeting of the Midwest Chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP). It is expected that the award will be used specifically to defray Midwest Chapter meeting registration fees and assist in the purchasing of books, supplies, and equipment needed for ongoing studies at NUPOC.

OPAF will award one $500 scholarship each fiscal year. The 2004 application cycle has begun. The deadline is April 15, 2004, as indicated below, with the successful candidate to be announced shortly thereafter at the 2004 annual meeting of the Midwest Chapter.

As the Memorial Fund grows through future contributions, its associated scholarship program will expand to recognize the continued support of OPAF's founders: the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABC), and American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA). The future scholarship program will be open to all full-time students enrolled in O&P Programs accredited by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Scholarship recipients will be expected to use their awards to defray fees incurred toward:

• AAOP Annual Meeting registration;
• AOPA National Assembly registration;
• registration for annual meetings of state and regional AAOP chapters and AOPA associations and societies; and
• registration for the ABC certification examinations.
  

To be considered for a scholarship under the current program, a student should:

1. submit a package of information that includes a current curriculum vitae (indicating current grade point average and class rank or percentile ranking); and

2. provide a short narrative (no more than two double-spaced pages in length) that describes why she/he is a good candidate for the award. The application narrative should address:

• financial need;
• school/community/volunteer activities;
• noteworthy personal and academic achievements and awards and recognitions; and
• work/internship history.
  

All applications under the current cycle are due no later than April 15, 2004.

All materials should be sent to address noted below, and all applications must be complete. OPAF reserves the right to return incomplete applications and contact applicants for additional information. Applications received cannot be returned.

Note: Please do not include any binders, folders, or any permanently bound material with your application.

All applications will be reviewed by a sub-committee of the Board of Directors of the Fund.

The successful applicant in the 2004 funding cycle will be responsible for offering to OPAF a short narrative (at least two double-spaced pages in length) about their experiences at the 2005 Midwest Chapter meeting. This essay will appear on a special page set aside on OPAF web site to recognize the student's professional accomplishments and experiences in O&P.

All successful applicants will also be responsible for keeping their own receipts and financial records for any reporting required in compliance with Internal Revenue Service guidelines as stated in IRS Publication 520 "Scholarships and Fellowships." A copy of this document is available here. (You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this document. If you do not have this program installed on your browser, you can download it here for free.)

For more information about the Dale Yasukawa Memorial Fund and its associated scholarship program, and/or or make a donation, please contact: Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440 Washington, DC 20006 Tel (202) 223-2878 Email rlb@opfund.org

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OPAF featured in June issue of "Nonprofit Leader"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. (OPAF), the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community, is featured in the June issue of "Nonprofit Leader."

Caldwell & Associates, Inc., an international management consulting and training firm, publishes Nonprofit Leader, the nation's #1 nonprofit sector newsletter. With a circulation of 15,000 individuals and 75,000 hits per month, the monthly online newsletter showcases innovative, successful practices and achievements by nonprofit organizations.

This spotlight on OPAF highlights the organization's recent grant award from the Corporation for National and Community Service. This award has enabled OPAF to expand its DC Community Initiative through a formal internship program and creation of a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-related arts and educational initiative for a diverse group of young people who are undergoing physical rehabilitation at the Hospital for Sick Children (HSC), a non-profit hospital in Washington, DC.

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OPAF to receive proceeds from upcoming Primefare golf tournament

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The PrimeCare O&P Network will host its fourth annual PrimeFare seminar and second PrimeFare Golf Tournament at the Whispering Woods Conference Center near Memphis, TN May 29 - 31. Proceeds from this event will be donated to the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) in memory of Ralph (Ronnie) Snell, CPO, FAAOP. Proceeds from the 2002 tournament yielded a $2,000 donation to OPAF.

OPAF thanks The PrimeCare O&P Network for their continued generosity and ongoing support.

The PrimeFare seminar classroom sessions, meetings and workshops will include a popular administrative track that features classes on HIPAA compliance and L-coding. This year's classes offer a total of 35 CEU's, with 12.5 prosthetic credits or 11.5 orthotic credits possible, and the remainder in concurrent administrative credits.

The golf tournament has been re-christened the Jackovitch Invitational Golf Tournament, in honor of Tony Jackovitch, founder of Orthotic & Prosthetic Components, Inc., whose efforts were so vital to the success of the 2002 tournament.

A traveling trophy will be surrendered by last year's winners, and presented to the 2003 tournament winners at a Friday evening reception sponsored by Boston Brace.

Rapidly increasing attendance and vendor presence at previous PrimeFare seminars dictated the change of venue to this Memphis area site, according to PrimeCare president Catherine Griffith.

"We're very excited about this fantastic new location for the seminar, which has enabled us to add some special features," Griffith said. "For instance, we've invited Elvis and his backup singers to join us at our reception!

"And thanks to our great group of generous sponsors-like Fillauer, Boston Brace, Camp Healthcare and others, the growth of our annual seminar is keeping pace with the continuing growth of the Network."

This year's sessions include speakers from Atlanta International, Becker Orthopedic, Chas. A. Blatchford & Sons, Cascade DAFO, Fillauer, Jim Smith Sales, MedFlex, Ohio Willow Wood, Ossur, Otto Bock, Silipos, and more.

For more information about the seminar, please contact Jane Edwards, Account Manager and/or Cathie Griffith, President, PrimeCare O&P Network, LLC at 888-388-5243, or visit the PrimeCare website at www.primecareop.com.

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OPAF welcome Otto Bock Health Care as gold sponsor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 31, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) is pleased to announce its newest annual gold sponsor from the O&P field, Otto Bock Health Care.

The generous support of Otto Bock Health Care enables OPAF to continue serving individuals with physical disabilities through its direct-service community programs.

Otto Bock Health Care was founded in 1919, and is the global realization of Otto Bock's vision for improving human independence. Established in 1958, the Minneapolis, Minnesota-based location is the North and South American corporate headquarters of Otto Bock Healthcare, GmbH, based in Duderstadt, Germany. Otto Bock has more than 3,000 employees worldwide and produces over 20,000 types of prosthetic and orthotic components, rehabilitation products and technical plastics, and also provides information technology services.

"Supporting OPAF further extends the vision of Otto Bock to support the prosthetic and orthotic industry in their quest for serving people with disabilities," said Pat Chelf, Vice President of Marketing. "As an industry leader, it is appropriate that we find ways to partner with clinical professionals and the people they work with to continually improve healthcare services."

OPAF is the official philanthropy of the U.S. orthotics and prosthetics community, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, OPAF now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science and technology.

As a community-focused nonprofit organization, OPAF aims primarily to enable individuals with physical disabilities - especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community - to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

All contributions to OPAF are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of U.S. law, and annual sponsorships of OPAF and its programs are available to every individual, institution, and company inside and beyond the O&P community. For more information about sponsorship opportunities contact OPAF at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. (202) 223-8878, email rlb@opfund.org, or visit this page. For complete information about current OPAF programs, please visit www.opfund.org.

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OPAF represented on international research team organized by
The Polus Center for Social and Economic Development

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 4, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - At the invitation of The Polus Center for Social and Economic Development, Dr. Jeff Reznick, OPAF's Executive Director and Senior Research Fellow, represented the Fund last month on a research team engaged in developing a Disability Leadership Institute to be affiliated with the University of Leon, The Polus Center, international aid organizations, and local grassroots NGO's. Reznick joined experts from various disability fields from both North and Central America to conduct interviews with Nicaraguan disability groups who will play central roles in planning and implementing the institute. The purpose of the institute will be to:

1. raise local, regional, and international awareness concerning the needs for persons with disabilities to have increased social, educational, and economic opportunities;
2. provide technical assistance to disability programs, institutions, and organizations in the planning and development for inclusion of persons with disabilities in various education and economic initiatives; and
3. connect through networking forums persons with disabilities, advocates, public officials, and others interested in disability issues.

Funded in part by the Patrick Leahy War Victims Fund, a U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) program, and the Pan American Health Organization, the Disability Leadership Institute will be engaged in supporting people with disabilities toward full participation in community life. It is anticipated that the institute will not only promote leadership but also simultaneously address a variety of access issues that impact social and economic opportunities and human rights for individuals with disabilities.

Look for an exclusive article about Reznick's contributions to the research team in the May 2003 issue of the O&P Almanac, the award-winning monthly magazine for the orthotics and prosthetics profession. Published by the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA), the O&P Almanac offers in-depth coverage of current professional, government, business, and reimbursement activities affecting the orthotics and prosthetics industry. To learn more about AOPA and the O&P Almanac please visit http://www.aopanet.org/

The Polus Center for Social & Economic Development, Inc. is a Massachusetts based 501(c) non-profit umbrella organization that supports a wide variety of human service initiatives on the national and international level. Over the years, The Polus Center has broadened the scope of its mission beyond the provision of direct care services to include planning and development consultation services on the national and international level. Working in Massachusetts since 1979, The Polus Center has been instrumental in the development of alternative service models that support people with disabilities at work, and at home. Many individuals who have spent years in institutional care are now competitively employed, and have homes in the community of their choice. For more information about The Polus Center please visit http://www.poluscenter.org/

For more information about OPAF's own direct-service programs and its representation of O&P in community and philanthropic circles, please visit http://www.opfund.org or contact OPAF directly at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. (202) 223-2878, Email rlb@opfund.org.

For complete information about OPAF's upcoming service programs and fundraising events, please visit: http:/www.opfund.org/announcements/index.html#2

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund is a nonprofit organization, a 501(c)(3) public charity, established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, the Fund now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science and technology. OPAF aims primarily to offer programs that enable individuals with physical disabilities-especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community-to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

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OPAF recognizes fellow nonprofit organizations through new grant program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. (OPAF) is pleased to announce the recipients of awards made through the new OPAF Grant Program.

Established in April 2002, the OPAF Grant Program enables the OPAF Board of Directors to evaluate completely the many requests for financial support it receives from nonprofit organizations that share OPAF's commitment to an enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities, especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community. Applications are due on December 1 each year for funding during the following year.

Complete information about the OPAF Grant Program is available on the OPAF web site.

The 2002 grant competition was made possible in part through a contribution from Össur North America. OPAF thanks Össur North America for generosily supporting this important initiative that helps to expand OPAF's formal representation of O&P community and philanthropic circles.

After a challenging evaluation process that involved ten organizations seeking OPAF's support, the OPAF Board of Directors chose to provide modest financial assistance to three organizations: The American Amputee Hockey Association (AAHA), Amputees Coming Together (ACT), and the Minnesota Rolling Timberwolves Women's Wheelchair Basketball Team.

The American Amputee Hockey Association (AAHA) provides opportunities for disabled athletes of all ages to learn and play the game of hockey. The AAHA has accomplished much since its establishment in 2000. Association activities include youth hockey camps, youth skates, and international exhibitions. The AAHA is also responsible for the inception of Team USA, who represents the United States at the Winter Paralympic Games. For more information about the AAHA, please write to 150 York Street, Stoughton, MA 02072.

Amputees Coming Together (ACT) is comprised of amputees and the families of children with limb loss, whose objective is to teach individuals to deal with various aspects of limb deficiency. This organization has several programs, but sought to raise funds specifically for their summer camp for kids. Last year's theme was "Challenge by Choice" as each camper chose to challenge himself or herself with a variety of activities including: river rafting, rope tower climbing, horseback riding, and gem mining. The ACT camp not only allows the children to stretch his or her understanding of what is possible, but also provides parents a network of other families who have children with limb loss. For more information about the ACT summer camp please write to PO Box 31437, Knoxville, TN 37930-1437.

Minnesota Rolling Timberwolves Women's Wheelchair Basketball Team is a community-based team for women with various permanent physical disabilities ranging from spinal cord injury to limb deficiency and post-polio. The common threads that bond the participants are the desire to be physically active, a love of the sport, the opportunity to compete and the camaraderie. The Minnesota Rolling Timberwolves compete at both local and national levels; some of the current players were previous members of Team USA at the Summer Paralympic games. These athletes also participate in community awareness events, exhibitions, and presentations that educate the public that there is life after rehabilitation. For more information about the Minnesota Rolling Timberwolves Women's Wheelchair Basketball team please write to 15200 Nowthen Boulevard, Ramsey, MN 55303.

For more information about OPAF's mission and its direct-service community programs please visit www.opfund.org or contact OPAF directly at 1666 K Street NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20006, Tel. (202) 223-2878, Email rlb@opfund.org.

For complete information about OPAF's upcoming service programs and fundraising events, please visit this page on the OPAF web site.

These programs and events will be held during the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) (March 19-22). OPAF warmly thanks the members and staff of AAOP for all their help in making possible these direct-service and fundraising events. For more information about AAOP and its annual meeting please visit http://www.oandp.org/

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O&P's "Three Sisters" become gold sponsors of OPAF in 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. (OPAF) extends thanks to O&P's "Three Sisters"- American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABC), and American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) - for their individual gold sponsorships of OPAF in 2003.

We are proud to recognize each of their contributions on our web site.

We are enormously grateful for this ongoing and generous support, which enables OPAF to grow and sustain its primary mission as O&P's official philanthropy: enable individuals with physical disabilities, especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community, to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

The OPAF logo reflects our recognition and appreciation of the longstanding support of AAOP, ABC, and AOPA. Three stars - representing the Three Sisters - crown the main star, which represents the individuals served by the Fund. The two stars flanking the main star represent the allied fields of orthotics and prosthetics.

OPAF is a nonprofit organization, a 501(c)(3) public charity, established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, the Fund now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science and technology.

For more information about OPAF please visit our main web page.

For complete information about our upcoming service programs and fundraising events, please visit this page of our announcements.

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OPAF announces newest annual sponsor: Endolite North America

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

Washington, DC - The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund (OPAF) is pleased to announce its newest annual sponsor from the O&P community, Endolite North America. Thanks to Endolite's gold-level sponsorship, OPAF will be able to continue serving individuals with physical disabilities through its Fitness for Everyone program in 2003.

Fitness for Everyone clinics are scheduled for March 22, 2003 in San Diego, CA, in conjunction with the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists' Annual Meeting, and October 25, 2003 in Reno, NV, in conjunction with the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association's National Assembly.

Endolite North America, a subsidiary of The Blatchford Group, is located in Centerville, OH, and offers a full range of lower extremity prosthetic products manufactured by Chas A. Blatchford & Sons, Ltd. The Blatchford Group has operations in the UK, North America, Asia, and India.

"Through its association with OPAF, Endolite is proud to be a part of these unique events that help amputees and therapists bridge the gap between the technology available today and reaching one's potential," says Denis Thellab, Key Accounts Manager Endolite North America.

"Endolite North America has been a generous and reliable sponsor of our activities for many years," explains OPAF President, Joel Kempfer CP FAAOP. "This agreement allows us to acknowledge their support further which directly influences the quality of life for the individuals we serve."

Fitness For EveryoneT is an exciting interactive clinic for above and below knee amputees, their family members, orthotic and prosthetic practitioners, physical therapists and other healthcare professionals. The program, designed and led by Paralympic athletes Todd Schaffhauser and Dennis Oehler, will help amputees to achieve their own goals. It will also help health professionals better assist their patients in reaching needs. Todd and Dennis began presenting their program in 1989, and through the years it has continued to evolve and enhance the lives of thousands of amputees.

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund is a nonprofit organization, a 501(c)(3) public charity, established in 1995 by the Orthotic and Prosthetic National Office. Dedicated initially to providing financial and in-kind support to the 1996 Paralympics, the Fund now generates its own initiatives through partnerships with individuals, organizations and institutions engaged in raising public awareness of disability and improving the quality of rehabilitation medicine, science and technology.

The Fund aims primarily to enable individuals with physical disabilities-especially those served by members of the orthotics and prosthetics community-to enjoy the rewards of personal achievement, physical fitness, and social interaction.

Annual sponsorship opportunities for all OPAF programs, including Fitness for Everyone, are available to every manufacturer and supplier in the O&P community. Join us to Give Wings to Dreams! For more information about these opportunities and the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc., please visit www.opfund.org or contact Julie Besaha, OPAF Program Coordinator, at 202.223.2878 or by email at .

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OPAF announces events to be held in San Diego, CA and Washington, DC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 13, 2003
Contact: Julie Besaha
(202) 223-2878

OPAF is pleased to sponsor the following events in conjunction with the upcoming annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), March 19 to 22 in San Diego, CA.

OPAF warmly thanks the members and staff of the Academy for all their help in making possible these direct-service and fundraising events.

FITNESS FOR EVERYONE AT SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL AND MARINA

Dennis Oehler and Todd Schaffhauser, three-time Paralympic track and field champions, will lead a Fitness for Everyone clinic on Saturday, March 22, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina. This day-long event is made possible through a partnership between Endolite North America and the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc.

Created and designed by Oehler and Schaffhauser, Fitness for Everyone clinics provide above-and below-knee amputees of all ages with instruction in stretching and strengthening, walking and running, and achieving their own physical goals. Family members of amputees who enroll in the clinic, as well as healthcare practitioners, are warmly welcome to participate in the program.

The clinics offer continuing education credits for most participating practitioners and are especially beneficial to orthotists, prosthetists, physical therapists and other members of the rehabilitation team who wish to extend patient care beyond the clinical setting. For more program details and registration information, please click here.

For the first time ever, annual sponsorship opportunities for this longstanding and popular program are now available to *all* manufacturers and suppliers in the O&P community. Please click here for information. (Note: You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this document. If you do not have this program installed on your browser, you can download it here for free.) For more details about co-sponsoring Fitness for Everyone, please contact the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. at 202.223.2878 or by email at rlb@opfund.org.

FIT FOR LIFE/FIRST SWING CLINIC AT RIVERWALK GOLF CLUB

On Tuesday, March 18, 2003, the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc. (OPAF), in cooperation with the National Amputee Golf Association (NAGA), will host a First Swing clinic at Riverwalk Golf Club in San Diego, California. This clinic is free of charge and open to all members of the O&P community, physical therapists, and every individual with a physical challenge regardless of age or handicap. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. and range instruction for therapists and patients from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Bob Wilson, Executive Director of NAGA, developed First Swing to instruct therapists in teaching and encouraging physically challenged individuals to learn, or re-learn, the game of golf. First Swing clinics enable individuals to enjoy the unique, friendly atmosphere found on the golf course and gain a greater sense of personal achievement, emotional and physical well being and self-confidence.

This First Swing clinic is one of the cornerstones of the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund's Fit for Life program, an initiative designed by the Fund to benefit individuals with physical disabilities who may not want to participate in demanding aerobic exercise but still desire an active lifestyle. For more information, please visit www.opfund.org/programs/life.html

OPAF SILENT AUCTION

Going, Going, Gone! OPAF preparing for its Spring 2003 Silent Auction, which will be held during the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists' Annual Meeting in San Diego, California. If you or your organization are interested in donating items to the silent auction, please contact Tamara Bibby at 202.223.2878. Stop by OPAF's booth for an opportunity to bid on a variety of outstanding gifts donated by individuals and organizations both inside and outside the O&P community.

This event, alongside the OPAF Golf Classic, helps to support OPAF direct-service community initiatives.

The Spring Auction will run from Wednesday, March 19 to Saturday, March 22, 2003. All highest bidders must claim their prizes no later than Noon, Saturday, March 22, 2003.

OPAF SPRING GOLF CLASSIC

Join us on Wednesday, March 19, 2003 at Riverwalk Golf Club in San Diego, California for our Spring 2003 Golf Classic. This event is an excellent occasion to make business contacts, network with colleagues, and promote your organization.

Riverwalk Golf Club, formerly known as the Stardust Country Club, has entertained countless golf legends while hosting the PGA tour during the 1950's and 1960's. This course was completely re-designed by Ted Robinson Sr. and son Ted Jr., and promises a classic golfing experience. More than half a million cubic yards of soil was used to turn the formerly flat course into 27 holes of undulating fairways, stunning waterfalls and well-protected bent-grass greens. The San Diego River, a prominent feature of the layout, contributes to the beauty and challenge of the course architecture.

Registration for the Golf Classic is $150.00; this fee includes green fees, cart fees, range balls, bag drop service, personalized golf carts, lunch, and two drink tickets. To register, please visit this page on our web site. Transportation to the course will depart the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina at 7:00 am sharp. Shotgun start is at 8:00 am. Please note that refunds of individual registration (the administrative portion paid to Riverwalk Golf Club, $105.00) cannot be issued after March 1, 2003.

OPAF WASHINGTON DC COMMUNITY INITIATIVE
OPAF-DCJCC Partnership

Throughout 2003, OPAF will continue its regular visits to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC, as part of the OPAF Washington DC Community Initiative. With the cooperation of the Morris Cafritz Center for Community Service, OPAF has planned visits for the second Tuesday of each month during 2003.

The dates and times are as follows:

• January 14, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• February 11, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• March 11, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• April 8, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• May 13, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• June 10, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• July 8, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• August 12, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• September 9, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• October 14, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• November 11, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
• December 9, 2003 at 5:30 p.m.
  

As they did throughout 2002, volunteers will spend the afternoon playing games and leading arts-and-crafts activities with children who are benefiting from orthoses and other assistive technology. OPAF provides all volunteers with educational materials about assistive technology, including a resource bibliography, which they can take home with them for further learning. Please visit our web site for program information and a picture gallery of previous visits to The Hospital for Sick Children: www.opfund.org/programs/dc.htm

OPAF WASHINGTON DC COMMUNITY INITIATIVE
OPAF-Corporation for National and Community Service Martin Luther King, Jr. Project

On Wednesday, January 15, 2003, OPAF will kick-off a new program at The Hospital for Sick Children, the OPAF/MLK Community Service Project. Bi-weekly educational activities, engaging the subjects of peace, diversity, tolerance, and human rights as they are reflected in the words of Dr. King, are planned for this new program. Through the creation of a unique learning environment, OPAF will help bring young patients social interaction and degrees of learning and personal achievement that they might not otherwise encounter during the course of rehabilitation.

This program, running until June 30, 2003, and will involve OPAF staff, including our new intern, and our volunteer network in Washington, DC. Dates for this program will be listed shortly on our web site; please visit for more information.

OPAF was one of 80 groups nationwide to be selected in a grant competition that recognizes community service related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Dr. Martin Luther Jr. King national holiday. The Corporation is charged by Congress to support local efforts to make the King Holiday a "day on, not a day off" - a day of service to meet local community needs.

For more information about the Orthotic and Prosthetic Assistance Fund, Inc., please visit www.opfund.org or contact Julie Besaha, OPAF Program Coordinator, at 202.223.2878 or by email at jab@opfund.org.

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