MASSENA, IA – FEBRUARY 10, 2026 – Officials with the City of Massena today (Tuesday), announced the City was awarded a $24,999 Quality of Life grant, for their inclusive community park project. The grant is from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center’s 2025 Direct Effect 2nd Cycle. In all, over $1.14-million in grants for 56 projects were awarded. The Quality of Life Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations that support individuals living with paralysis. Since the Quality of Life Grants Program’s inception, more than 4,100 grants totaling $50 million have been awarded. Funding for this program was made possible through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living.

The Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center has several grants under the Quality of Life program, awarding grants in different category areas, varying in different amounts. The Priority Impact grants program funds organizations to support a wide range of projects and activities that will impact individuals living with paralysis and their families. Dan McNeal, Director of the QLF Grants Program at the Reeve Foundation, said in a news release, “These grants represent more than funding—they represent freedom, possibility, and dignity for individuals living with paralysis. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to improving everyday life for our community. We’re proud to support organizations nationwide that are expanding access and creating programs built on accessibility, care, and respect.”

The City of Massena will use the grant to install inclusive play equipment that allows individuals with disabilities and sensory sensitivities to play and interact alongside others. Grant funds will also support accessible surfacing that makes the playground safer and more usable for all abilities. City officials say “The City of Massena is truly honored to receive this funding and sincerely thanks the Reeve Foundation for its generosity. The Reeve Foundation’s $24,999 award is helping make inclusive play opportunities a reality in our community.”

About the Reeve Foundation:

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by paralysis. By uniting the brightest minds in the field, we are working tirelessly to accelerate scientific discoveries across the field of spinal cord research by investing in labs across the globe. Additionally, through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living, the Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) promotes the health, well-being, and independence of people living with paralysis, providing comprehensive information, resources, and referral services assisting over 139,000 individuals and families since its launch in 2002. The Reeve Foundation is committed to elevating our community’s voices and needs to achieve greater representation and independence. We meet all 20 of the Better Business Bureau’s standards for charity accountability and hold the BBB’s Charity Seal.

For more information, please visit our website at www.ChristopherReeve.org or call 800-225-0292.

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Officials with the City of Massena say the City’s mission “Is to provide high-quality services, safe infrastructure, and vibrant public spaces that support the health, well-being, and prosperity of all residents. We are committed to responsible stewardship of resources and long-term investment in facilities that strengthen our community. We believe that accessibility and inclusion are fundamental to public service. By reducing barriers and ensuring that facilities meet the needs of individuals of all ages and abilities, we affirm our responsibility to create spaces where every resident can participate fully in civic and recreational life. Through thoughtful planning, collaboration with schools, regional partners, and community organizations, and active engagement with residents, the City seeks to build a welcoming environment for all. Our mission is to cultivate a community where families can thrive, children can grow and learn, and neighbors can connect through shared spaces and opportunities.”

For more information, please contact Dawn at City Hall at 712-779-2295.