"Global Archery™ provided our patients at Shriners Children's Hospital with the S.A.F.E. Archery® target as a generous gift to supply our Recreational Therapy department. Individuals of various ages and diagnoses are able to enjoy this target as a means of fun and therapeutic recovery in and outside of the hospital. Equipped with bow and arrows, darts, and axes, this set promotes fine and gross motor skill function, balance, hand-eye coordination, strength, and dopamine release, all of which assist in their recovery.

The target and supplies were initially acquired for a Recreational Therapy event called "Camp Shriners," where the patients were brought to a beach house and enjoyed outdoor games and activities. The target was such a hit, and the kids were so invested, we ran out of time for many of the other planned activities during the event! A definite fan favorite. The target was transported, set up, and taken down with ease. After the event was finished, the patients requested that it stay set up in the Rec Therapy room, where they continue to play with it daily while in the hospital. The smiles, laughs, and "that was a bullseye," have continued! Even the parents and staff give a throw or two of the axes or darts as they enter into the room- we all could use a moment for our inner child, right?

Patients of various ages and diagnoses are able to enjoy this activity regardless of physical deficits because of the adaptable product. Children who have endured spinal and external fixator surgeries are able to participate, even though often wheelchair bound. The patients who we serve with Cerebral Palsy, orthopedic injuries, and developmental disabilities all engage in the fun and often compete with one another. Our teenage patients enjoyed the bow and arrows for a challenge while our younger pediatric population enjoyed the darts and axes because of easy handling. And because of the easy stick velcro, patients are able to both throw and retrieve their own arrows, darts, and axes, making it an activity that promotes their independence and autonomy.

There is no other company that not only supports safe, and high-quality archery products, but who deeply care about the people who use it. The impact of the target goes beyond diversional fun, it's a means of healing for our hospital and we're more than appreciative to be apart of it. Thank you to Mr. Jackson who has personally cared for our patients and staff, his kindness and vision to help those in need is genuine and reliable."

Abby Reese

Recreational Therapy Intern

Shriners Children's Hawaii