Giovanni’s challenges Sault businesses to 'get in the swing'

After donating $5,000 to the "Bring the Swing" event, Giovanni’s Restaurant has challenged other businesses to get behind the initiative.

"When we heard what they had planned, we knew we had to help” said owner Nick Cavaliere. “The foundation has the trust of this community and we know they will get the job done, it was a no-brainer for us.”

The Bring the Swing Community Initiative dates back to 2016 when The Algoma Autism Foundation collaborated with Rotary, Community Living Algoma, and the City of Sault Ste. Marie to bring to Northern Ontario the first Adventure Sensory Play area at Bellevue Park, a news release says.

At that time, there was no CSA-approved swing of this type in Canada. Fast forward to 2024 and the apparatus is now approved. The swing is designed for people in a wheelchair to enjoy. The unique part is there is no transferring onto the swing; it can be operated from a wheelchair.

The Algoma Autism Foundation is spearheading this project, but with a $75,000 price tag they cannot do it alone. The goal is to raise the funds as quickly as possible in hopes the equipment can be purchased, installed and in use for the 2025 season.   

On Saturday Sept. 28, a fall colours motorcycle ride is scheduled. The ride will leave from Branch 25 Royal Canadian Legion at noon and travel north to take in the colour change. Cost to ride is by donation.