Challenger Gym was developed in 2011 by pediatric physical therapist Wendy Morris who has been leading the group since then. Wendy has been a pediatric physical therapist for almost 35 years, earning a Master’s in Physical Therapy from Arcadia University in 1987. She has worked in multiple states and has treated children in multiple settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools and private homes. She has worked with students of every age from birth through 21, and even treats some young adult patients. Her caseloads over the years have included children with cerebral palsy, autism, developmental delays, coordination delays, extra sensory needs, and the medically fragile. She raised her three children in Great Valley with all three participating in athletics and graduating from Great Valley High School. Wendy and her husband Chris have spent years volunteering with GVCO activities beginning while their children were participating in the sports programs and more recently with Caring Hands and Challenger Gym. Wendy has many years of experience and a true love for children of all abilities.

While Wendy has been the mainstay of the program, there are many volunteers that help as well. Most notably are the high school volunteers who are recruited to be “buddies” for the participants. These are high school students trained by Wendy to carry out adapted activities always under Wendy’s guidance. The atmosphere is one of fun, laughter and much enthusiasm!!