Small Business Driver: dSport

Although 1 in 4 New Zealanders identify as having a disability, this community is still largely underrepresented in sport and active recreation. dSport, Wellington’s leading disability sport organisation, believe that all New Zealanders have a right to get involved in sport and active recreation – no matter the physical barriers they might face.

dSport’s members, all who have physical impairments, already face many challenges in their daily lives. Sport and active recreation provides them with opportunities to participate in team or individual sport, allowing them to feel connected to their personal wellbeing and more importantly, to their communities. dSport programmes assist with participants’ physical and mental health needs, as well as providing a pathway for Paralympic sport. Catriona McBean, Manager at dSport, says that their organisation is also an illustration of inclusion for those who have not experienced playing sport before.

For the majority of 2020, dSport were unable to provide any programmes or activities for their members, who range from 5-year olds learning new physical skills to Paralympians excelling in their chosen sport.

Accessing a Toyota Highlander through Toyota’s Small Business Driver initiative has ensured dSport continued access to the wider disabled community, many of whom are greatly affected by social isolation – more so than able-bodied individuals. This has allowed dSport to showcase to their community that they are still here to encourage engagement in healthy lifestyles, networking, and active recreation opportunities, despite the chaos this year has delivered. Toyota’s initiative has also allowed dSport to attract partners, supporters and donors to help them function efficiently, and ultimately achieve their vision for the Wellington region, which is to be as diverse and inclusive as possible.

If you are keen to support dSport as a partner or sponsor, check out their website for further information https://www.dsport.nz/

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