The Excalibur program was conceived and incorporated in 1982 by James &
Catherine Catalano and Angie L. Licata. Set up as a charitable
organization, Excalibur was the first non-profit in New York State (and one of a
few in North America) to provide waterfront accessibility for the differently abled and the disadvantaged. In recognition
for its programming, Excalibur received the Eleanor Roosevelt
Community Service Award in 1988 from
Governor Mario Cuomo.Since 1985, many hard working
Western New Yorkers have contributed considerable time, effort, and services to
this program. As a result, the now retired ADMIRAL P. R. LUCCI, the first of a
specially modified wheelchair accessible boat, and the decommissioned FRANCIS J.
PORDUM, were able to provide the developmentally challenged and the
disadvantaged the opportunities to enjoy open access on the waters of Lake Erie
and Lake Ontario.
Today, we are most fortunate to have the RICHARD A.
SMITH to carry on Excalibur’s mission. We believe, that with accessibility,
we are presented with opportunities, and with opportunity, the grace and dignity
to participate.
