Direct Effect Grants
2024 2nd Cycle Direct Effect Grants
52 Grants Totaling $1,042,391
Adaptive Pickleball
Geer, SC 29651
$20,000 – Adaptive Sports
Project “Let’s Roll”
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 100
Percentage of Program Budget: 20%
This grant aims to benefit at least 200 individuals living with spinal cord injury in South Carolina by providing greater access to adaptive pickleball through the purchase of 5 adaptive sport wheelchairs, insurance, and other essential expenses. Through the purchase of the adaptive sports chairs, participants will be equipped with the necessary means to actively engage in the sport, promoting their physical health, confidence, and a connection to their community. Activities will include coaching sessions that will allow participants to have hands-on support and build their own skills.
Adaptive Sports Center of Crested Butte, Inc.
Crested Butte, CO 81224
$24,999 – Adaptive Sports
Adaptive Sports Center: Subsidized Outdoor Adventure Programming for People Living with Paralysis
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 114
Percentage of Program Budget: 9%
This grant will support 2025 programming and scholarships for individuals living with paralysis as well as their families and caregivers. Based in Colorado, this leading and inclusive adaptive sports program empowers participants through activities such as mountain biking, skiing, rock climbing, and kayaking. Additionally, they specifically recruit rural residents, veterans, active military, and those newly injured with paralysis.
Allina Health Foundation
Minneapolis, MN 55422
$24,996 – Fitness and Wellness
Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (Courage Kenny) Adaptive Group Fitness and Yoga Studio
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 75
Percentage of Program Budget: 52%
This grant will support the development of a new Adaptive Group Fitness and Yoga Studio at their Courage Kenny, Golden Valley, MN location. The funding will help transform an existing office space into a calming environment for those living with paralysis to explore adaptive fitness. By creating a dedicated space they will enhance the health and wellness journey of people living with paralysis and foster a sense of community while promoting their mental wellbeing.
Bart J. Ruggiere Adaptive Sports Center
Manchester Center, VT
$18,488 – Adaptive Sports
Grit All Terrain Wheelchair Project
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 12
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will provide Grit All Terrain Wheelchairs that will allow wheelchair athletes and their families to experience hiking and connect with nature in Southern Vermont. These chairs will allow them to offer hiking to both children and adults living with paralysis during their fall and spring programming in addition to expanding their winter trail activities.
Bridge II Sports
Durham, NC 27705
$24,999 – Fitness and Wellness
Veteran Fitness Challenge serving Veterans w/ disabilities/SCI in Rural communities across the US
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 25
Percentage of Program Budget: 50%
This grant will support a unique program that provides a virtual challenge and community platform for veterans living with spinal cord injury through MoveSpring. Bridge II Sports has provided adapted sports events for veterans living with disabilities since 2013 and this program was created to address social isolation born out of the covid-19 pandemic. Through this program they will connect veterans around the country through tracked monthly challenges, virtual meetings, a chat function, and educational segments all aimed to provide a holistic approach to health.
Camp For All
Houston, TX 77098
$10,444 – Fitness and Wellness
Camp For All Pool Area Upgrades
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 199
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will fund the purchase of four Aqua Creek Pool Access wheelchairs and one wheelchair-to-water Global P-375 ADA Pool Lift to be used at their 206 acre campground. Their facility and pool complex is designed to be barrier free and these new chairs will allow their campers living with paralysis to access their zero-entry pool. Additionally, this new lift will provide further opportunities for individuals to experience their spa and benefit from temperature control.
Camps for Spiffy-Kyds, Inc.
Port Trevorton, PA 17864
$24,800 – Camp
Camp Spifida 2025
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 32
Percentage of Program Budget: 33%
This grant will help support 32 “camperships” for children living with Spina Bifida. Camp Spifida is offered to children ages 6 to 18 and is fully staffed with counselors, nursing staff, and doctors at Camp Victory in Millville, PA. Through various activities such as crafts, fishing, dancing, swimming, and boating, the 2025 camp will promote independence, self-assurance, and a positive self-image for all campers.
Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare
Pomona, CA 91767
$22,000 – Adaptive Sports
Advancing Wheelchair Sports at Casa Colina’s Outdoor Adventures Program
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 50
Percentage of Program Budget: 90%
This grant supports the expansion of Casa Colina’s adaptive recreation program into a full wheelchair sports program through the purchase of two First Team Hurricane Triumph portable basketball hoops. Expanding their program will address a significant need for wheelchair sports in the Inland Empire region and Casa Colina has a proven record in providing adaptive sports programs. This expansion will also provide more frequent opportunities for individuals living with spinal cord injuries to engage in various wheelchair sports including basketball, rugby, and tennis.
Cheshire Home
Florham Park, NJ 07932
$24,999 – Healthcare
Opening a Wheelchair Seating & Mobility Clinic at Cheshire Home for the Community
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 208
Percentage of Program Budget: 15%
This grant seeks to address a lack of wheelchair seating clinics for those living with paralysis by supporting the launch of an outpatient wheelchair seating and mobility clinic. Individuals with paralysis often face significant delays in receiving chairs and equipment and in their region, some can even wait as long as six months to be seen. Through this grant they will provide a much needed service in their community, reducing wait times and expanding access to equipment.
Conquer Paralysis Now
Indianapolis, IN 46240
$24,999 – Facility Accessibility Modifications
Aquatic Center Pool Lift and Usage Initiative
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 220
Percentage of Program Budget: 82%
This grant will support the purchase and installation of a pool lift as well as staff training at their second DRIVEN NeuroRecovery Center in Indianapolis, IN which includes a state of the art aquatic center. Access to aquatic fitness is limited in their region and this project aims to address this gap. The installation of the pool lift is a key component in creating an inclusive and safe environment for aquatic exercise.
Craig Hospital Foundation
Englewood, CO 80113
$24,999 – Education
Clinical Practice Specialists: Preparing People with Paralysis for Independent Living
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 250
Percentage of Program Budget: 5%
This grant will support Craig Hospital’s new Clinical Practice Specialists program. This new initiative was designed to prepare those living with spinal cord injury and brain injury achieve maximum independence once they graduate from Craig’s inpatient program. Additionally, it also provides caregivers with the necessary skills to support them. Through this program individuals living with paralysis and their caregivers become more adept at nursing tasks, maintaining their health, and maximizing their independence once they return home after inpatient rehabilitation.
Disability Rights of New Jersey
Trenton, NJ 08608
$24,999 – Consumer Education
Legal Assistance for People with Paralysis: Community Integration through Education and Advocacy
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 1000
Percentage of Program Budget: 41%
This grant will allow for Disability Rights NJ to provide legal representation to at least 10 Medicaid-eligible individuals with paralysis who are at risk of being placed in a nursing facility or are currently residing in a long-term nursing home and want to return to their home and community. Both long and short term nursing home residents will be targeted with an emphasis on newly injured individuals, and funding will specifically support professional and legal staff. Through providing legal services and assistance, this project will empower individuals living with paralysis to live fuller lives at home or in their community.
DisabilityBelongs
Fredericksburg, VA 22405
$24,999 – Employment
Empowering Future Leaders: Leadership and Career Development for Fellows with Paralysis
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 4
Percentage of Program Budget: 40%
This grant will support the expansion of Disability Belong’s National Leadership Program and allow them to recruit additional individuals living with paralysis. This program enables people living with disabilities such as spinal cord injury to gain necessary skills and develop leadership toward their careers. The current employment rate for individuals living with disabilities is 36% and this program aims to address this through in-house job coaching, networking, assistive technology, and skills development.
Freedom’s Wings International, Inc.
Bedminster, NJ 07921
$16,291 – Adaptive Sports
Soar!
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 50
Percentage of Program Budget: 71%
This grant will fund a portion of Freedom’s Wing’s operational expenses for their adaptive glider program. Freedom’s Wings utilizes two Grob 103 gliders fitted with hand controls for people living with paralysis and their program is offered free of charge. Specifically, the grant will cover the cost of two aero tows, annual FAA inspection and maintenance, a protective cover for one glider, and damage and liability insurance for the program.
George Mark Children’s House
San Leandro, CA 94578
$22,480 – Facility Accessibility Modifications
Accessible Equipment for Palliative Aquatic Pool
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 270
Percentage of Program Budget: 9.5%
This project aims to make the Palliative Aquatic Pool at George Mark Children’s House more accessible by purchasing a Hoyer Lift and Shower Table. This lift will allow clients to safely transfer from the pool deck into the pool, while the shower table will allow for clients to shower independently following pool sessions. With increased access the Palliative Aquatic Program will provide more opportunities for the children and young adults they serve to experience the benefits of aquatic therapy and improve their quality of life.
Hero’s Path Palliative Care
Albuquerque, NM 87114
$24,999 – Caregiving
Respite and Psychosocial Support for Children with Medical Complexity and Disabilities
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 30
Percentage of Program Budget: 22%
This grant will support the purchase of one Action Trackchair and provide funding for staff and contractors to assist children living with paralysis at their respite events. Hero’s Path Palliative offers respite services to children on the Medically Fragile Waiver and their families and has served over 30 families through their various programs. Because their programs are run at local open spaces which are limited in terms of accessibility, an all-terrain wheelchair will allow them to host respite events at more spaces in nature. Additionally, they also will provide ongoing psychological support such as counseling and coaching between events through a licensed child life specialist and therapist.
Hunter Health Clinic
Wichita, KS 67214
$11,265 – Facility Accessibility Modifications
Accessible Doors for Brookside Clinic
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 500
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will provide for the purchase of an ADA accessible push-button door to be installed at their Hunter Health Brookside Clinic. Hunter Health provides care to four clinic locations in Wichita, KS and the surrounding area. By installing this door patients and staff living with paralysis will have greater access to care and services in the Wichita community.
I AM ALS
Washington, DC 20044
$19,000 – Peer Mentoring and Support
Caring for the ALS Community: Addressing Mental Well-Being through a Peer Support Network
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 85
Percentage of Program Budget: 16
This grant will provide funding for I AM ALS’ Peer Support Specialist (PSS) program for them to increase their capacity and outreach to individuals who are newly diagnosed, under-resourced, and in underserved communities. Peer Support Specialists are individuals living with ALS themselves and work alongside social workers on their ALS Support Team.
IMPACT Inc.
Boston, MA 02111
$23,000 – Adaptive Sports
Adaptive Sports Abuse Prevention (ASAP) Austin
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 750
Percentage of Program Budget: 62%
This grant will support a program to address the problem of sexual abuse for people living with paralysis, specifically in the adaptive sports community. Funding will allow IMPACT to work with adaptive sports coaches, leaders, and volunteers to proactively prevent abuse. They will also partner with Cerebral Palsy Awareness Transition Hope (CPATH) to circulate their Adaptive Sports Abuse Prevention (ASAP) curriculum to their community in Central Texas. Additionally, they will educate staff and volunteers through a conference in Austin as well as ongoing technical assistance.
Lemon City Collective
Miami, FL 33138
$9,026 – Fitness and Wellness
Universal Exercise Unit for Children with Paralysis to Exercise with Peers
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 22
Percentage of Program Budget: 51%
This grant will allow for the purchase of a Universal Exercise Unit and accessories, a UEU Tracking Rail and 8 different sized UEU belts to be used in Lemon City Collective’s sensory and play gym. They operate the only facility in the underserved community of Little Haiti with dedicated “open play” hours where children can exercise without the usual constraints of “doing therapy”. During these sessions, children both with and without disabilities can exercise and enjoy sensory activities together in a safe and inclusive environment.
Lonely Worm Farm Arts and Agriculture Programming, Inc.
Hyde Park, NY 12538
$24,999 – Accessible Trail
Operation Grass Mat
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 46
Percentage of Program Budget: 42%
This grant will support the installation of 2,228 feet of grass mats in order to create a more wheelchair accessible surface for the foot path around their farm. Currently, their path is made of stone dust which is difficult to maintain and navigate with heavy wheelchairs, causing them to sink or get stuck. These new grass mats will improve the existing path and allow wheelchair users to easily explore the farm and participate in a wide range of activities.
Marquis Studios Ltd.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
$10,000 – Arts
Laser Painting Program Expansion
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 10
Percentage of Program Budget: 40%
This grant will allow Marquis Studios Ltd. to provide a full year of 1-on-1 laser painting sessions to 6-10 students at an additional Bronx public school in New York City’s District 75 special education district, P10X. Laser painting helps provide students with little or no use of their arms and hands with a creative outlet and previously this program was only offered at a single school in Manhattan.
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
$24,999 – Fitness and Wellness
Reintegration and Resilience: Mary Free Bed’s Recreational Therapy Program
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 100
Percentage of Program Budget: 3%
This grant will support staffing and supplies for their inpatient recreational therapy program for children and adults. Specifically salaries covered will be for recreational, art, and music therapists and supplies will cover woodworking, art and music therapy, gardening, sports and recreation, and animal assisted therapy. By engaging in activities such as these, patients living with paralysis can improve their quality of life.
Miami-Dade County
Miami, FL 33128
$24,837 – Accessible Community Spaces
Expanding Access in Miami-Dade County
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 30
Percentage of Program Budget: 97%
This grant will allow for the purchase of portable accessible paths, accessible deck panels, a modular stage ramp, an ADA-compliant podium, and hands free microphones for use at community spaces and public meetings. This project will promote inclusion for people living with paralysis and provide them equitable access to programs in the community.
Montrose Recreation District
Montrose, CO 81401
$24,999 – Adaptive Sports
Adaptive Biking Montrose Recreation District
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 30
Percentage of Program Budget: 91%
This grant will allow for the purchase of adaptive handcycles and tandem bikes in addition to a storage trailer. Montrose Recreation District is the only provider of adaptive recreation services in the rural area of western Colorado that they serve. Additionally, there are currently no outdoor recreation activities in Montrose. The purchase of this equipment will provide greater access to recreational activities outdoors for people living with paralysis.
Paralyzed Veterans of America – GA (Southeastern Paralyzed Veterans of America, INC)
Hephzibah, GA 30815
$24,999 – Adaptive Sports
Access to the National Veterans Wheelchair Games for Paralyzed Veterans
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 25
Percentage of Program Budget: 88%
This grant will allow for veteran athletes to attend the 2025 National Veterans Wheelchair Games (NVWG) as part of their Sports and Recreation program. Funds will cover the hotel accommodation for 25 athletes for 5 nights to take part in the games in Minneapolis. Many of the veterans they serve live with depression and have experienced severe trauma. Attending and participating in this event has provided a means of restoration and hope for the veterans served by the program.
Paralyzed Veterans of America, Buckeye Chapter
Willoughby Hills, OH 44092
$14,599 – Adaptive Sports
Buckeye Wheelchair Games
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 38
Percentage of Program Budget: 28%
This grant will support a portion of staffing, member, and caregiver lodging in addition to rental expenses for the 2025 Buckeye Wheelchair Games. This is their largest and most inclusive event held at the Spire Institute in Geneva, OH and many participants go on to compete at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games.
QUAD Inc.
Portland, OR 97218
$24,999 – Durable Medical Equipment
Hoyers for Accessible Living
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 8
Percentage of Program Budget: 83%
This grant will support the purchase of four hoyer lifts for use in their facility. Quad Inc. provides barrier-free housing and 24/7 services to adults living with spinal cord injuries. These hoyer lifts would ensure that their residents are able to transfer in and out of bed. Additionally, they will also reduce the physical strain on them and their care attendants.
Quality Living Inc.
Omaha, NE 68104
$21,580 – Durable Medical Equipment
Independent Horizons
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 40
Percentage of Program Budget: 55%
This grant will help establish a loan closet program that will assist individuals living with spinal cord injury to transition home with the necessary medical equipment. Quality Living Inc. will acquire 20 Raz shower chairs that will be loaned out to individuals. Hygiene is one barrier to living independently for people living with paralysis and these shower chairs will offer independence and dignity for the population they serve.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum
Summit, NJ 07901
$24,999 – Accessible Community Spaces
Completion of Path for All to Key Garden & Horticultural Areas, and Open-Air Amphitheater
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 3250
Percentage of Program Budget: 3.5%
This grant will support the completion of an ADA compliant pathway from their parking lot and open-air workshop to their main gardens and open-air amphitheater. The arboretum sees over 100,000 visitors a year and the existing paths are old and difficult to traverse for people living with paralysis or other mobility challenges. Additionally, this new path will connect to existing ADA compliant walkways and areas on the property.
Rest-Stop-Ranch
Topsfield, MA 01983
$5,000 – Accessible Community Spaces
Lily Pond Overlook Path and Wheelchair-Accessible Patio
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 20
Percentage of Program Budget: 30%
This grant will fund the completion of their Lily Pond Overlook Path and Wheelchair Accessible Patio. Funding will specifically cover the cost of materials and accessibility signage to ensure that the space is ADA compliant. Both the path and patio will further expand their communal space and foster independence and social interaction for people living with paralysis in an inclusive outdoor environment.
Rhythm of the Rein, Inc.
Marshfield, VT 05658
$24,800 – Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Rhythm of the Rein Therapeutic Riding and Driving
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 15
Percentage of Program Budget: 27%
This grant will provide scholarship support to 15 new clients for their therapeutic riding and driving program. They are one of only 3 PATH accredited centers in Vermont who serve youth and adults living with disabilities. Additionally, they serve one of the most economically disadvantaged areas of the state with many of their clients losing housing and property during historic flooding in 2023. This therapeutic riding program assists in their recovery process while providing a sense of normalcy and improving their physical and emotional wellbeing.
Ridin’ High Inc.
Morristown, TN 37813
$6,609 – Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Equicizer Exercizing
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served:12
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will fund the purchase of an Equicizer to be incorporated into their therapeutic riding program sessions. This mechanical riding simulator can be used both with live horse activities and as standalone therapy for people living with paralysis. Ridin’ High is a well-established and PATH certified riding center that regularly serves 12 people living with paralysis and their caregivers and is the only therapeutic riding center for 50 miles.
Ski-Dawgs Adaptive Water Skiing
Bush, LA 70431
$8,315 – Adaptive Sports
Increase the QOL for People with Paralysis through Ski-Dawgs’ 2025 Adaptive Water-Skiing Clinics
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 125
Percentage of Program Budget: 74%
This grant will provide general operating support for their adaptive water-skiing clinics. Specifically, funds will cover equipment costs, supplies, travel, and event insurance. Ski-Dawgs hosts five clinics per year open to both individuals living with paralysis and their caregivers.
Solid Ground Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy Center
Klamath Falls, OR 97603
$24,999 – Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Uplifted: Securing Accessibility Equipment for Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 30
Percentage of Program Budget: 49%
This grant will support the purchase of necessary equipment for use in their therapeutic riding programs that will allow individuals living with paralysis to fully participate. They will purchase a AM 52” Trus-T-Lift 750 Vertical Platform Lift as well as purchase and install a Ceiling Lift/Track System and Body Support equipment which will allow individuals to be safely lifted onto horses. Solid Ground serves a rural region with limited access to therapeutic services so there is a clear need for this equipment.
Southwest Wheelchair Athletic Association
Arlington, TX 76006
$23,500 – Adaptive Sports
SWAA Wheelchair Lacrosse Program
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 10
Percentage of Program Budget: 67%
This grant will support the growth and development of SWAA’s Wheelchair Lacrosse program in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Funds will be used to purchase 5 Per4Max Wheelchair Lacrosse Sportschairs which will enable more individuals with paralysis to compete. Wheelchair Lacrosse is a relatively new sport and there are currently no programs within a 300 mile radius of them or in their surrounding states.
Sports Venue Foundation
White River Junction, VT 05001
$24,999 – Facility Accessibility Modifications
Upper Valley Aquatic Center to Install Automatic Doors
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 3063
Percentage of Program Budget: 62%
This grant will provide funding to update their existing doors with automatic controls in order to increase accessibility to their facility. Upgrades will be made to the doors to their three locker rooms, doors to their warm water pool, to their fitness area, from their warm water pool to their competition pool, and the exit door to the facility.
STEP Inc
Fairmont, MN 56031
$24,999 – Durable Medical Equipment
Day Services Assistive Technology Expansion and Implementation
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 10
Percentage of Program Budget: 53%
This grant will support the purchase of 3 portable Hoyer lifts and 3 adjustable tables. This will serve to replace their existing adaptive equipment which does not currently support their clientele. STEP Inc. operates a Minnesota waiver-funded Day Services program for people living with disabilities including paralysis.
STRIDE Adaptive Sports
West Sand Lake, NY 12196
$22,122 – Adaptive Sports
Program Expansion to Upstate New York’s Adirondack Region
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 45
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will provide funding to expand STRIDE’s adaptive skiing program for individuals living with paralysis by purchasing a Monique Mono-Ski and Dynamique Bi-Ski with small seats, as well as funding for a new child-size slider. This new equipment will increase STRIDE’s ability to serve a wider range of children and adults living with paralysis. Currently, no adaptive ski programs exist in the Adirondack region. This equipment would allow them to expand into Titus Mountain, a highly underserved area, and ensure that those living with paralysis in the region can fully engage in their adaptive skiing programs.
Supportive Living, Inc.
Woburn, MA 01801
$15,276 – Fitness and Wellness
Adaptive Exercise Equipment for Independence & Confidence
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 60
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will allow for the purchase of an additional NuStep Cross Trainer and a SportsArt T635M Medical Treadmill for cardiovascular exercise as part of their Neuro-Fit Assisted Exercise program. This program works closely with people living with paralysis including those affected by traumatic brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, and other neurological disorders by providing long-term fitness solutions and support. In 2024, the program served 120 individuals living with a brain injury or other neurological disorder across five locations in the Boston, MA area. The purchase of this equipment will allow them to increase the amount of participants.
The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges
Tulsa, OK 74104
$18,616 – Adaptive Sports
Adaptive Sports
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 85
Percentage of Program Budget: 13%
This grant will support their Adaptive Sports program through the purchase of licensed sports equipment, sport wheelchair tires and tubes, and other adaptive sports items. Funds will also cover costs for training sessions and team practices, competition registration fees and association memberships, certified adaptive sport official fees, and travel costs associated with their Adaptive Sports Program. They are the only adaptive recreation facility in Oklahoma and fulfil a necessary need in their community.
Therapeutic Riding of Tuscaloosa
Cottondale, AL 3545
$24,900 – Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Let’s Ride
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 10
Percentage of Program Budget: 47%
Funds for this grant will support their therapeutic riding program for individuals wanting to participate but lacking the means to do so by providing scholarships for families. Therapeutic Riding of Tuscaloosa serves 50-55 individuals per week but due to the high costs involved, they operate on a fee for service basis. Additionally, there are currently no other facilities in the West Central Alabama area that offer riding instruction to people living with paralysis. Funds would pay for the instructor fees, part of the facility costs, and specialized training to increase their volunteer staff.
United Cerebral Palsy Association of Orange County d/b/a Unlimited Possibilities
Santa Ana, CA 92705
$24,500 – Adaptive Sports
UP to Us Club
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 27
Percentage of Program Budget: 19%
This grant will support their recreation services “UP to Us Club” which will provide social recreation opportunities to 100 children with disabilities, including 27 children living with some form of paralysis, ages 5-21 in 2025. This program provides individualized support to children and families living with disabilities in Orange County, CA. Created to address the social isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, this program also promotes social and recreational opportunities through ongoing and integrated activities for children both with and without disabilities.
United Cerebral Palsy Central California
Fresno, CA 93720
$24,141 – Facility Accessibility Modifications
Bathroom modification at UCPCC’s Adult Program Center
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 110
Percentage of Program Budget: 93%
This grant will provide funding for the purchase of essential equipment for four Armedica Hi-Lo Large adult changing tables as well as a 2600 Victor Lift to be installed and used as part of a bathroom renovation for their new facility. Their new 35,450 square-foot facility is in the process of being made fully accessible and will be the main site for their adult day programs. Both the changing tables and the lift will allow their clients to be transferred comfortably and safely while also effectively allowing staff to assist them with their personal care needs.
United Spinal, Iowa Chapter
Urbandale, IA 50322
$12,392 – Fitness and Wellness
Inclusive Iowa
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 100
Percentage of Program Budget: 75%
This grant will support events and programs for United Spinal Iowa. Funds will be used to purchase and maintain recreational equipment used in their Equipment Loan Program which has operated for over 12 years. Additionally, all their adaptive equipment is also used at their annual Adapted Living & Recreation Expo. Funds will also support their annual Bowling Event and Fall Social, which are both free for their members and families to attend.
United States Volt Hockey Association
Roxbury, MA 02120
$24,999 – Adaptive Sports
Volt Hockey Outreach Initiative
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 150
Percentage of Program Budget: 90%
This grant will fund the purchase of four volt hockey chairs for the United States Volt Hockey Association to be used at expos and events as well as raise awareness and attract new players. Currently there are only two volt hockey teams in the US and they are hoping to expand. The chairs will also be loaned out to other adaptive sports nonprofits so they can be tried out and further grow the sport nationwide.
Warriors on Wheels, Inc.
Albany, NY 12209
$6,005 – Fitness and Wellness
Warriors on Wheels 35-25 Fitness Equipment Upgrade Project
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 77
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will cover the purchase of new fitness equipment to replace and add to their current equipment in their newly renovated space. Warriors on Wheels offers a fitness and wellness program free for participants and serves over 200 people living with paralysis and other disabilities weekly with over 90% of them living under economic hardship. This new equipment will allow them to provide further services and empower people living with paralysis toward greater independence.
Washington University School of Medicine
St. Louis, MO 63130-4862
$24,579 – Healthcare
Training the Next Generation of Physicians Using Accessible Equipment
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 72,000
Percentage of Program Budget: 100%
This grant will provide funding to enhance their MD and DPT clinical skills training centers with accessible healthcare equipment to help train current and future clinicians. Currently they lack equipment such as height-adjustable exam tables, Hoyer lifts, and wheelchair scales and any equipment they currently have is outdated. Funding will specifically cover Hoyer lifts and slings, slide boards, height-adjustable exam tables, and positioning slides as well as instruction for the first session.
Wheelchairs 4 Kids
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
$20,000 – Camp
Wheely Fun Camp
Anticipated number of people living with paralysis to be served: 40
Percentage of Program Budget: 61%
This grant would help fund their Wheely Fun Camp at Camp Twin Lakes for 40 children living with paralysis and their families. This program addresses social isolation by allowing children to be included in activities and improve social skills through various activities. The camp is designed to be an inclusive environment where children living with paralysis and other physical disabilities can participate with their peers.