More than a foundation: A movement
For over 30 years, the Challenged Athletes Foundation has supported athletes with physical disabilities—not just funding equipment, but fueling confidence, independence, and lifelong community. Here, a grant isn’t just money. It’s a first recumbent bike. A comeback race. A reminder of what’s possible.
To provide opportunity, access, and belonging for athletes with physical disabilities—because sport transforms lives.
A world where every person with a physical disability can pursue athletic dreams—without financial, social, or systemic barriers.
After a devastating accident left athlete Jim MacLaren paralyzed, three friends rallied to support his comeback. What began as a single act of love became CAF—proving that no injury could outlast human spirit.
Recognizing that veterans faced dual battles—physical wounds and invisible scars—CAF launched Operation Rebound. Today, it’s the gold standard in adaptive sports recovery for service members worldwide.
When CAF athletes and supporters raised $1M in one cycling event, it wasn’t just about money. It was a declaration: athletes with physical disabilities aren’t inspirations, they’re competitors.
As the world shut down, CAF pivoted—launching virtual programs that reached athletes in 50+ countries. Proof that community and innovation keep sport moving forward.
Surpassing $191M in funds raised, CAF became the largest global adaptive sports funder—but the real milestone? Every athlete who crossed a finish line they once thought impossible.
The Challenged Athletes Foundation is committed to transparency and accountability. Explore our financials and impact:
Athlete stories
Join a team that turns passion into impact. Every day, you’ll witness athletes shatter limits, donors transform lives, and a community rewrite the rules of possibility. Come for the mission; stay for the life-changing moments that happen when passion meets purpose.
The heart behind the mission
From our passionate Board of Directors to our dedicated staff, every member of Team CAF shares an unwavering belief: that sport has the power to transform lives.
Team CAF is proud to have a headquarters that showcases the mission of the foundation and honors athletes with physical disabilities and their accomplishments. Educational programs, donor appreciation evenings, media outreach, partner meetings, free adaptive classes and community education events are hosted here throughout the year.
Become part of something greater and create a legacy for your family or loved one. Purchase a block on CAF’s HOPE Wall and help support athletes for years to come. For information on purchasing a block, contact us.
Find out how you can help build and expand the programs and educational elements inside the building, while creating a permanent recognition of your gift with naming rights. We are hopeful to upgrade the technology and experiential elements for visitors through your generosity. For more information, contact us.
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from the CAF team.
