Legislators Timothy Wroblewski (D-West Seneca, South Cheektowaga), Lynn Marinelli (D-Buffalo, Tonawanda) and Albert DeBenedetti (D-Buffalo) presented $4,600 in Erie County funding to Excalibur Leisure Skills Center, Inc. Excalibur is a private, non-profit all volunteer, charitable organization dedicated to providing free adaptive boating and fishing opportunities for disabled and disadvantaged persons.

"Excalibur's mission and volunteers focus on improving the quality of life of disabled individuals and accent the good natured spirit that defines the Western New York community," said Legislator Wroblewski.

Excalibur was founded by James Catalano in 1985 and since then has filled a critical therapeutic and developmental need for over 48,500 children and adults from over 850 area human service providers. Excalibur Leisure Skills Center serves approximately 2,800 people each year. The vast majority of clients come from area agencies that deal with developmentally, socially and mentally disabled people. Excalibur volunteers also work with at-risk inner city youth and boys and girls clubs.

"Excalibur Leisure Skills Center gives disabled individuals opportunities to enjoy the independence of sailing and fishing on the water, a freedom so many of us would simply take for granted," said Legislator Marinelli.

"Excalibur provides our service free of charge, and relies completely on grants and donations, with our volunteers providing help and expertise to make it all happen," said James Catalano, Executive Director of Excalibur Leisure Skills. "This funding will go a long way in making a difference in the lives of the people we serve."

"Excalibur Leisure Skills Center' s commitment to improving the lives of individuals is extremely important to helping make Erie County a better place for each and every one of us," added Legislator DeBenedetti.

Individuals interested in donating their time and/or money to Excalibur Leisure Skills Center can call 831-3188 for more information.

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