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WIU alumnus Bryce Weiler participating in a recent The Beautiful Lives Project event.
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WIU Alumnus Works to Improve Opportunities for Those with Disabilities

June 19, 2019

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MACOMB, IL – A Western Illinois University alumnus, who is visually impaired, has devoted his life to helping those with disabilities enjoy a variety of life's events.

Bryce Weiler, who received his master's degree in sport management in 2016, is a disability consultant for the Baltimore Orioles, and helps run a non-profit called The Beautiful Lives Project. The agency gives people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in activities previously unavailable to them, including athletics, performing arts, visual arts, nature and wellness.

"My work with the Orioles includes helping them become the first team in sports to wear Braille on their jerseys last year," Weiler said.

Through his work with The Beautiful Lives Project, Weiler is planning a softball event in Cumming, GA, July 14. Disabled fans will be on the field to play with softball players from across the country.

The carnival-style party at Fowler Park will begin with a modified softball game and a carnival afterward. The company relies on volunteers and community leaders to put on its events.

Weiler said he credits WIU Associate Professor of Kinesiology Algerian Hart for helping him "realize that everyone has a voice and should be heard."

"Dr. Hart pushed me during my time at Western Illinois to show that although I cannot see, I can still show students how I can exist in society as everyone else," he said.

For more information about The Beautiful Lives Project, visit beautifullives.org. Anyone who would like to participate in or volunteer for the softball event can contact Weiler at (812) 899-5673 or by email at bryce@beautifullives.org.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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