About
The Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) is a San Diego-based nonprofit that provides opportunity, access, and belonging for athletes with physical disabilities. Founded in 1994, CAF funds adaptive sports equipment, prosthetics, and coaching, and runs adaptive sports events and clinics across the country, based on the belief that sport transforms lives. The organization's legal name is Challenged Athletes Inc (EIN 33-0739596).
Mission
To provide opportunity, access, and belonging for athletes with physical disabilities — because sport transforms lives.
What they do
- Grants: funding for adaptive sports equipment, prosthetics, and coaching for athletes with physical disabilities.
- Adaptive sports events and clinics: inclusive sports experiences across multiple sports.
- Operation Rebound: an adaptive sports recovery program for military service members, launched in 2005.
- Youth programs: outreach and education initiatives for schools.
- Regional programs: operations in Northern California, Southern California, Idaho, and the Northeast, plus a cycling club.
History
CAF was founded in 1994. After athlete Jim MacLaren became paralyzed following a devastating accident, three friends rallied to support his athletic comeback, and that single act of compassion evolved into the Challenged Athletes Foundation.
Scale and impact
CAF reports having raised more than $200 million to support its mission. According to the organization, 88% of its athletes reported an improved quality of life, and in 2020 its virtual programs reached athletes in more than 50 countries.
Financials
According to IRS Form 990 data compiled by ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, Challenged Athletes Inc (EIN 33-0739596) reported total revenue of $16,660,187 and total assets of $32,724,882 for fiscal year 2024, and total revenue of $12,862,581 for fiscal year 2023. The IRS recognized the organization as tax-exempt in 1997.
Governance
CAF's co-founders serve on its board, with Jeffrey Essakow as President, Bob Babbitt as Vice President, and Rick Kozlowski as a co-founder. Kristine Entwistle serves as Executive Director. The foundation is headquartered at 9591 Waples Street, San Diego, California.