Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach

Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach (AWWR) is a 501(c)(3) Minnesota-based non-profit organization that brings adaptive outdoor recreation within reach for people living with permanent physical disabilities. Through public and private partnerships we remove financial, physical, and community preparedness obstacles to inclusive wilderness experiences. 

Founded in 2022 by Sean & Jill Leary, AWWR’s mission is to make wild places more accessible for people with physical disabilities. Sean was paralyzed (SCI T11/12) in a motor vehicle accident in 2001 and graduated from Saint John’s University in 2006. Prior to his accident, Sean was an avid canoe and camping enthusiast. Sean and Jill met while Jill was guiding canoe trips and they married in 2010. Jill is an educator and Sean is an environmental consultant. As Sean & Jill raise their family, they prioritize exploring nature and understand how challenging it is for people with physical disabilities to access the wilderness. AWWR changes this reality for their participants by breaking down barriers to access and making outdoor adventures more inclusive. 

AWWR's current programming includes the following adaptive outdoor activities: kayaking, fishing, dog sledding, and cross country skiing. Please join AWWR in their mission to make the great outdoors accessible to all.