December Partner Spotlight

Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF)

In 1994, one man launched a global change in the way athletes with physical challenges are perceived – and perceive themselves. After two tragic accidents left Jim MacLaren a quadriplegic, a group of friends came together and held the first San Diego Triathlon Challenge (SDTC) to help purchase an adaptive van for Jim. The goal was to raise $25,000 and provide Jim freedom and autonomy. Over $49,000 was raised that day, and more importantly, was the birth of a community, a movement and a new term – “challenged athlete.”

Since that first SDTC, Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) has raised over $147 million, funded more than 40,000 grants for challenged athletes around the world and motivated tens of thousands more to make sports and fitness a part of their daily lives. CAF’s top priority is to provide opportunities and support to people with physical challenges so they can pursue active lifestyles through physical fitness and competitive athletics. They believe that involvement in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence and enhances quality of life.

As we looking forward to 2023, DYF and CAF are working harder than ever to increase access to sports for individuals at all levels.