Members  of Pi Kappa Phi constructed the first phase of a boardwalk that will allow people in wheelchairs to experience nature up-close, some for the first time. November 9-11, 2007 Adam Upshaw, Lane Luckie, Collin McKnight, Cody Bourque, and Matt Leblanc along with associate members Kyle Domangue and Andrew Thomas participated in one of Push America’s Give-A-Push Weekends in Rutledge, Georgia.

They drove 10-hours to help Camp Twin Lakes, a non-profit organization that provides camp facilities and staff for numerous service organizations, many of which serve those with disabilities. Nearly 40 representatives from Pi Kapp chapters across the region worked together to construct the first phase of a 3/4 mile boardwalk skirting a lake on the camp property.

Eventually a fully accessible tree house will be constructed at the end of the boardwalk. The Pi Kapp volunteers also helped with several smaller projects such as the demolition of a canoe rack. The weekend provided an opportunity to experience brotherhood with members from other chapters, as well as interaction with the campers who will use the new boardwalk.

Push America also presented Camp Twin Lakes with a $5,000 grant over dinner during the first full night. Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse was so impressed by the efforts of Pi Kappa Phi, the company pledged to match dollar-for-dollar any purchases the camp makes using the grant.

Beta Omicron plans to send many more participants in these events over the coming semesters and encourages all members to be actively involved in Push America events both nationally and locally. Plans are currently being discussed to bring a GAP Weekend to the Lion’s Camp in nearby Leesville, Louisiana.

For more information about Give-A-Push Weekend or other Push America programs, visit www.pushamerica.org.