First coming to Montgomery from Argentina in 2010, Jessica Weyreuter wanted to find a way to help others.
Weyreuter, a lifelong tennis player, found an opportunity to help others after find out one of her friends had become a quadriplegic due to a skiing accident.
“I realized he would be able to play tennis someday, and that’s why I thought it was important to start a program where people could play this sport,” Weyreuter said.
The program eventually became Dream Court, a non-profit group that provides a tennis program for individuals with either physical or intellectual disabilities. On Thursday, she and several city members celebrated the opening of two tennis courts at Edward Thompson Park, located on Ray Thorington Road.
Prior to the courts being built, program participants used tennis courts at Alabama State University and Auburn University in Montgomery.
Weyreuter said there are 30 athletes and 60 volunteers that are involved with the program.
Over $190,000 was raised to build the courts, which first started being built in 2013.
During the ceremony, Todd Strange said the courts would be a welcome addition to the city’s goal of making dreams come true.
“We do not talk about the disabilities of our people, but we talk about their abilities,” Strange said. “Every one of us have abilities, they are just different, and now we have the opportunity through this to give the full participation and utilization of this program.”
Weyreuter said she felt there was a special need for programs and activities for those with disabilities.
“Some of them don’t have many options after school is over, so it gives them a chance to not sit at home, get self-esteem, exercise and meet other people,” she said.
For more information on the program, contact Weyreuter at 334-414-1980 or email her at dreamcourtinc@gmail.com.