Resources for Adaptive Adventure & Sports
This list provides information on organizations offering adaptive sports programs and potential funding sources for equipment and adventure-related needs for individuals with disabilities.
Adaptive Adventure & Sports Organizations
These organizations provide direct programming, inspiration, and opportunities for participation in adaptive sports and recreation.
Paradox Sports
Mission: To foster the potential and strength of individuals with physical disabilities by providing inspiration, opportunities, and specialized adaptive equipment, enabling participation in human-powered sports and defying assumptions about limitations.
Adaptive Outdoor Education Center
Mission: To offer quality year-round outdoor recreational and educational opportunities for people with disabilities of all ages to enhance their quality of life. Activities include rock climbing, alpine skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, hiking, kayaking, fishing, cycling, sailing, Audubon programming, swimming, and arts & crafts.
Maine Adaptive Sports and Recreation
Mission: To promote year-round education and training for individuals with physical disabilities in Maine, developing skills and providing enjoyment through active recreation.
Adaptive Sports Partners
Mission: To empower individuals with disabilities, in the North Country of New Hampshire and Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, by building community, confidence, and skills, through sport, recreation, and adventure.
mPower Athletics
Mission: To engage, entertain, and educate adaptive sports fans and accelerate the discovery of ability through sport.
Move United
Mission: To provide national leadership and opportunities for individuals with disabilities to develop independence, confidence, and fitness through community sports, recreation, and educational programs, striving for equal opportunity in sports and recreation for everyone, regardless of ability.
Funding & Grant Opportunities for Adaptive Adventures
These organizations and resources offer financial assistance for equipment, training, travel, and other needs related to adaptive sports and adventures. Please verify deadlines and application details directly with the organizations, as they can change.
Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) – Grant Program
Purpose: Funding can cover travel, equipment, and training costs to make adaptive sports participation possible.
Application Period: September – December
Award Notification: April (As of April 5, 2025, the current application cycle is closed, and awards are being announced.)
Athletes Helping Athletes, Inc.
Focus: Provides funding to special needs organizations primarily in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. Also promotes awareness and inclusion through school athletic partnerships and community events.
Note: Location-specific to the PA region.
American Alpine Club – Live Your Dream Grant
Purpose: Funds various aspects needed to undertake an adventure (climbing, backcountry skiing, etc.).
Eligibility: Open to everyone, not disability-specific.
Application Period: February 1st – March 31st
Award Notification: May (As of April 5, 2025, the application period has just closed.)
Kelly Brush Foundation (KBF) – Adaptive Sports Equipment Grant
Purpose: Specifically for adaptive sports equipment.
Application Periods & Deadlines:
Spring Cycle: Deadline March 31st (Awarded in May) (As of April 5, 2025, this deadline has just passed.)
Fall Cycle: Deadline September 30th (Awarded in October)
Note: Focuses on individuals with spinal cord injuries, but consider applying if you use a wheelchair due to other neurological conditions.
Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England (SBAGNE)
Annual Empowerment Benefit Program: Provides support for various needs. Currently accepting applications; refer to SBAGNE documents for details and specific deadlines.
Jean Driscoll “Dream Big” Award