CONTACT INFO:

2102 West Loop 289, Apt #79

Lubbock, TX 79404

Phone: 806-470-1584

Email: wtxturningpoint@yahoo.com

LINKS:

Events Calendar

•  Kick off Event- October 25
•  Fun & Games- November 22

WES HARLEY

   Wes Harley was riased in Levelland, Texas and in 1981 was involved in a car accident that resulted in a complete T-4 spinal cord injury. Wes realized that he could play the hand that was dealt or fold, but being a "West Texan", he faced the upcoming challenges with vigor: "to live my life with quality and purpose". After rehabilitation, Wes relocated to Lubbock, attended Texas tech University, and in 1986 received his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. During that time, he founded the non-profit organization "South Plains Spokers" providing other Texas Tech students and area residents with disabilities the opportunity to participate in wheelchair basketball, tennis and adapted snow skiing programs. Upon graduation, Wes began his career as Supervisor of Recreation Therapy at Methodist (Covenant) Rehabilitation Center. After gaining vital work experience with a multitude of adults and youths with varying disabilities, he returned to Texas Tech's graduate program and obtained his Master's Degree of Education in 1991.

   Through education success and participation in State and National wheelchair sports programs, Wes accepted the position of Supervisor of the Wheelchair Fitness Center at St. David's Rehabilitation Center in Austin, Texas in September of 1991. Throughout the next fourteen years, my responsibilities included managing the barrier-free fitness center and devising individual workout programs for rehab inpatients and community members with various disabilities. The majority of my time was spent organizing and implementing fitness and recreational programs for both youths and adults with disabilities that included:

          Wheelchair sports (tennis, basketball, racket ball, softball and football)

          Weekend and trips to Six Flags and Texas Rangers baseball games

          Bowling and swimming

          Adapted snow and water skiing

          White water rafting trips

          Camping and fishing

          Canoeing and kayaking

   I decided to return to my "Home" and utilize this experience to provide these and other outdoor activity programs for our disabled community members. These and other programs provide the physically disabled participants with the same opportunities for exercise, to enjoy nature and "enhance their quality of life" as their non-diabled peers.