CORNING, N.Y. -- On Saturday, September 26, SUNY Corning Community College welcomed individuals with
disabilities, along with their families, athletes, coaches, volunteers, and community
members, for D3Day Corning. This free and inclusive sports event was designed to celebrate
ability, encourage participation, and foster meaningful connections.
Held at SUNY Corning Community College, D3Day offered a welcoming environment where participants of all abilities could engage in adapted sports, build confidence, and connect. Founded by Corning native Dave Clark, D3Day emphasizes possibilities rather than disabilities. No prior sports experience was required, and all activities, equipment, and lunch were provided at no cost.
"Saturday was a great example of what Disability Dream & Do is all about—bringing people together, creating opportunities, and focusing on what individuals can do rather than what they can't," said Doug Cornfield, Director of Disability Dream & Do (D3Day).
"We're extremely grateful to Corning Community College, the Red Barons, our volunteers, and everyone who helped make the day so meaningful for our participants and their families. For Dave and me, hosting D3Day here in Corning, where so much of this story began, made the day even more special."
Volunteers were crucial to creating an inclusive experience for participants throughout the event. Community members, students, families, athletic teams, school groups, and workplace organizations were encouraged to help with tasks such as managing activity stations, offering encouragement, handling check-in, and assisting with setup and cleanup.
"Corning D3Day is one of my favorite days of the year. Our student-athletes often gain as much from the experience as the campers do, if not more," said Isaac Bushey, Director of Athletics at SUNY Corning. "We're proud to host this event on our campus, and I look forward to working with the entire D3Day team and to welcoming the participants and families who join us each year."
A highlight of D3Day Corning was the recognition of Chad Johnson as the most recent recipient of the Pulling Each Other Along Award. This award honors unsung heroes whose kindness, service, and commitment create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It recognizes those who support, encourage, and include others, including family members, coaches, teachers, caregivers, volunteers, teammates, and community advocates.
D3Day Corning brought together the SUNY Corning community and its partners to celebrate every ability and reinforce the important message of inclusion. Everyone belongs, everyone can participate, and everyone has something to contribute.
SUNY Corning Community College Athletics was proud to be part of an event that united people through sport, service, and community.