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Empowering Athletes: A Guide to Adaptive Sports Grants

Writer's picture: Mandy SykesMandy Sykes

Updated: Jan 5

For many individuals with physical disabilities, participating in sports can be a life-changing experience. However, the cost of specialized adaptive equipment often presents a significant barrier. Fortunately, several organizations offer grants to help athletes overcome these financial hurdles and pursue their athletic dreams.


 Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF)


The CAF's Access for Athletes program provides funding for adaptive sports equipment, training, and competition expenses. This initiative aims to ensure that no athlete is left on the sidelines due to financial constraints.


 Move United


As an affiliate of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Move United works to make sports and recreation accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. They offer various grant opportunities to support adaptive athletes.


 GoHawkeye Enabling Grant Program


This program focuses on outdoor sports equipment and experiences. With biannual grant cycles ending May 1 and November 1, it caters to both individuals and organizations across the United States.


 IM ABLE Foundation


IM ABLE grants provide hand-cycles, adaptive athletic gear, and instructional training programs. Their goal is to encourage physically challenged individuals to lead more active lifestyles and enjoy the benefits of physical fitness.


 Kelly Brush Foundation


Specifically for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI), this foundation's Individual Grant Program supports the purchase of adaptive sporting equipment like mono-skis and hand cycles.


 Additional Resources


Several other organizations offer support for adaptive athletes:


- Cindy Donald Dreams of Recovery Foundation

- The Michael-Ryan Pattison Foundation

- Travis Roy Foundation

- I Got Legs Foundation

- Never Say Never Foundation


 Local Support: Genesis Foundation Wichita


For youth up to 18 years old in specific Kansas counties, the Genesis Foundation Wichita offers grants that can support adaptive sports initiatives. Applications are accepted three times a year.


 Applying for Grants


When applying for these grants, be prepared to provide:


- Detailed information about your disability

- Description of the equipment or support you're seeking

- Explanation of how the grant will impact your athletic pursuits

- Financial information to demonstrate need


Remember, each organization has its own specific requirements and application processes. Be sure to carefully review the eligibility criteria and deadlines for each grant opportunity.


By taking advantage of these resources, adaptive athletes can access the equipment and support they need to participate fully in sports, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and inspiring others along the way.



Payton is a stroke survivor and as a result, has left sided hemiplegia, which is a form of cerebral palsy.  Payton loves sports, but when only half of your body works the way it is supposed to, it can make moving and playing any kind of sport a real challenge.  Swimming is Payton’s absolute FAVORITE sport and this is her reason why, “The pool is my happy place. In the water, my body is free and light and it is easier for me to move. Sometimes I wish that I was a mermaid so that I could live in the water all of the time.” Being a part of Wichita Adaptive Sports provides the opportunity to participate in adaptive swimming at the Wichita Swim Club.  Being a part of Wichita Adaptive Sports has finally given Payton a sense of belonging, where her disability does not define or limit her in any way. We are so incredibly blessed to be a part of this amazing organization and family! -Sherri Holle
Payton is a stroke survivor and as a result, has left sided hemiplegia, which is a form of cerebral palsy.  Payton loves sports, but when only half of your body works the way it is supposed to, it can make moving and playing any kind of sport a real challenge.  Swimming is Payton’s absolute FAVORITE sport and this is her reason why, “The pool is my happy place. In the water, my body is free and light and it is easier for me to move. Sometimes I wish that I was a mermaid so that I could live in the water all of the time.” Being a part of Wichita Adaptive Sports provides the opportunity to participate in adaptive swimming at the Wichita Swim Club.  Being a part of Wichita Adaptive Sports has finally given Payton a sense of belonging, where her disability does not define or limit her in any way. We are so incredibly blessed to be a part of this amazing organization and family! -Sherri Holle



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