IPC Launches 'I'm Possible' Program in Tokyo

(ATR) The International Paralympic Committe (IPC) along with development partners the Agitos Foundation have launched a program to boost parasport education in Tokyo ahead of the Games.

The "I'm Possible" program intends to engage youth ages 6-12 in the Paralympic movement in a 15-part lesson, showcasing para athlete abilities and achievements.

"Educating youngsters about the outstanding abilities of Para athletes and the values they stand for will see them return home to educate their parents and grandparents about the Paralympic Movement. Youngsters become the teachers." IPC president Philip Craven said in a statement.

"I am certain that this program will not just build excitement for the upcoming Paralympic Games but act as a catalyst to social inclusion with the next generation realizing that everything in this world is possible."

The name "I'm Possible" was inspired by the theme of the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Games closing ceremony of "Reaching the Impossible". During the ceremony the word "Impossible" was shown in a stream of lights on the roof of theFisht Olympic Stadium. A wheelchair user then appeared challenged with the task to climb to the top of the lettering. Once at the top, he then became a flying apostrophe between the letter "I" and "m" turning "Impossible" into "I'm Possible".

The new program will be added as part of the education program of the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee. The IPC hopes the program will be picked up by other organizing committees and institutions around the world.

The global launch of the program will be held later this year. During the next launch, materials of the program will be available in various languages including English, French, Spanish and more.

Homepage photo: IPC

Written by Courtney Colquitt

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