Message from the Mountain

September 2024/Issue #3

Land Search

I remember visiting campgrounds as a child. Two things were always a constant in the good old Missouri Summers...humidity and mosquitoes. I cannot remember a time when neither of those existed as a one-two combo nature punch to the gut.

I am searching for the perfect location for Mobility Mountain that offers low humidity and a low mosquito count. I can find both of those in higher elevations. Around 1500 feet and above, those two factors seem to go away. We are looking for land in those elevations with a lake or enough land to create a lake. Yes, create a lake for you to enjoy. Sounds great doesn't it? We enjoy a good challenge and want to squash any idea that mosquitoes have control.

Overall, a campground at a higher elevation offers cooler temperatures, stunning scenic views, and fewer insects, making the camping experience more comfortable and enjoyable. The air is often cleaner, providing a refreshing atmosphere, and the reduced light pollution enhances stargazing opportunities, allowing campers to enjoy clear, unobstructed views of the night sky.

We are seeking land at a higher elevation. Help us spread the word!

Inclusive Playground 

In addition to the publicly accessible All Persons Trail, Mobility Mountain will have an Inclusive Playground that will be open to the public. In case you do not know, an inclusive playground is designed to be accessible and welcoming to children of all abilities, allowing everyone to play together in a safe environment. These playgrounds feature accessible pathways, ramps, and diverse equipment that caters to various developmental needs, ensuring that children with mobility aids or other challenges can participate fully.

Safety and sensory-friendly elements are key components, with soft surfaces, handrails, and quiet spaces designed to reduce risks and support children with sensory processing challenges. The equipment is carefully selected to provide opportunities for all children to engage and enjoy.

Additionally, inclusive playgrounds promote social interaction and understanding among children of different abilities. Clear visual and auditory cues help children with visual or hearing impairments navigate and enjoy the space, fostering a sense of community and inclusion.

The Inception of Mobility Mountain (Part 3)

Jeffrey Pryor

I watched the campground swell with guests and then empty like a giant balloon. I did not see many persons with disabilities, and those that I did see were relegated to the hot asphalt site, under the bright spotlight that shined 24 hours a day. Almost like there was a sign overhead that screamed "Different from everyone else." I felt the desire to do something but I also felt helpless. I had no job. I had no money. However, I did have the motivation to find a solution.

I researched options for disabled veterans to start a small business. It seemed like there were some good options if the business was for profit, but for nonprofits, there was little help, if any. I stepped outside of my travel trailer and looked at all of the campers doing their thing. I knew that this would be a commitment, a challenge, and possibly a massive failure. I grabbed a pad of paper and a pen and started writing. The whole time I was thinking of the blind girl who told me that she had nothing to do.

I began drawing up designs and creating a concept for a campground that would cater to disabled persons. No more checking the boxes, this campground would only be for persons with disabilities. I would make it truly accessible, providing the access to nature that was so sorely needed. When I got done writing, I was in tears. I had tears of joy, as I could feel the emotion and happiness that future guests would share when they came to Mobility Mountain and experienced nature.

In August of 2022, I applied to the Veterans Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Oklahoma's business school...

Read more in next month’s issue.