By Jacob Robinson, Simcoe Reformer

DELHI - The Delhi Belgian Archery Club has always stressed the importance of inclusion. Recently, Norfolk County helped further that mission.

On Sept. 22, Norfolk's Structural Improvement Grant program of the Community Improvement Plan announced $3,794 will go to construct a handicapped accessible door to the lower level of the Delhi Belgian Club.

The door will allow members to easily access the club's shooting quarters.

“We were very enthused about it and very impressed – I was really shocked,” said Mary Ann Pieters, head instructor for the archery club along with her husband George. “We didn't know if we would get it or not, but with having (members) in wheelchairs, we might have more people coming out that are in wheelchairs that would join the archery club knowing there is a better handicapped door for them to come in.”

The door will be located at the back of the hall, and provide access to both the shooting area, bar and games room. Construction is expected to begin next month. Pieters said the addition will allow for anyone with disabilities to easier participate, or even cheer on shooters.

The idea arose when two disabled youngsters joined the club as regular members last year.

“It was kind of hard for them to come in all the time,” Pieters noted. “We thought we'd make it easier for more people to want to come out and join in.”

At this point, between 50 and 60 shooters take part in the club's three sessions per week (Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday). Registration for the year is just $5 per person. Anyone interested in joining can call the Pieters residence at 519-582-3108.

Community Improvement Plans are designed to help municipalities target areas in transition or in need of repair, rehabilitation and redevelopment. Information available at norfolkbusiness.ca, phone 519-426-9497 or email: businessnorfolkcounty.ca.