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Napa Valley College's Fight to Save a Lifeline for Disabled Students and Seniors

A Program Cut, a Community United

Last spring, Napa Valley College was forced into painful budget decisions, culminating in the elimination of a 40-year-old adaptive physical education program. For over two decades, this program had provided a safe haven for more than 200 students with disabilities and older adults each semester, offering specialized exercise equipment designed for wheelchairs. When the program faced the axe, the response was swift and fierce—students, families, and seniors stormed board meetings, rallying to defend what they called a critical lifeline for health and social connection.

The college pointed to financial strain—lost federal grants and shrinking property tax revenue had forced painful layoffs and cuts. But the outcry revealed a deeper truth: this wasn’t just about money. It was about access.

A Legacy of Inclusion: Evelyn Anderson’s Gift

Just as the program teetered on the edge of oblivion, the Napa Valley College Foundation—which had supported it since 2021 through a donation tied to alumna Evelyn Anderson’s estate—stepped in to bridge the gap. Anderson, a former student in both the adaptive PE and wine programs, had left funds specifically earmarked for these causes.

The foundation had already used her gift to purchase equipment and fund scholarships, but when the program’s survival hung in the balance, they realized a permanent solution was needed. Instead of patchwork fixes, they’re now creating an endowment fund—one designed to generate steady income to keep the program running indefinitely. The exact funding required remains unclear, but the vision is clear: no more last-minute rescues.

Beyond Fitness: The Heart of Adaptive PE

Trustee Jeni Olsen acknowledged the board’s constraints but stressed that the program’s value extends far beyond classroom hours. For many participants, it’s not just about exercise—it’s about community, confidence, and friendship. The board is now exploring partnerships and fundraising campaigns to rebuild the program before its planned fall return.

As a temporary measure, the program will pause for summer, closing from June 15 to allow everyone involved time to strategize. When asked about the foundation’s swift intervention, executive director Jessica Thomason reflected on Anderson’s legacy of inclusion.

“We knew this was something she cared deeply about. It’s rewarding to see how much this program means to people who rely on it.”

A Model for the Future?

The foundation’s decisive move proves a powerful lesson: when institutions face impossible choices, outside support can rewrite the story. Napa Valley College now has a chance to rebuild stronger, ensuring that accessibility and opportunity aren’t casualties of financial hardship.

As the community rallies to reclaim what was nearly lost, one thing is certain—some programs aren’t just classes. They’re lifelines.