Mural Reveal Launches FVSRF Into Year Ten

BATAVIA — As the Fox Valley Special Recreation Foundation (FVSRF) celebrates ten years, it reflects back on the opportunities it has provided by displaying a mural in the heart of the Fox Valley Special Recreation Association’s (FVSRA) service area, the City of Batavia.

In a collaboration with Water Street Studios, a mural was created by local artist, Lisa Youngdahl, from Resolution Creative. The work depicts a real-life experience of a participant, Susu A., who is typically confined to a wheelchair, but thanks to an FVSRA aquatic recreational therapy program she gets to swim freely.

“I am honored to be chosen to create this mural for the Fox Valley Special Recreation Foundation. I hoped to capture the joy in SuSu’s face as she participated in the program, and feature the wonderful instructors, like Michelle,” said Youngdahl. “I wanted to visually communicate how important these programs are to the community.”

A small group attended to watch the ceremony in person, while over 400 people have participated online.

“These programs by FVSRA are life-transformational, it’s why FVSRF exists and we’re excited for what the next ten years will do for people with special needs in our community,” said Tony Abbot, Board Chairman at FVSRF.

Celebrate with FVSRF by making moments like Susu’s become a reality. The Foundation is asking the community to help celebrate its tenth anniversary by funding a future for a gift of only $10/month.

Artist Lisa Youngdahl, Participant Susu A., and Adult Coordinator Michelle Livingston, pose for a photo by the mural after the ceremony.