(BPT) - Over a quarter of a century, $44 million in grants have been awarded to more than 3,800 projects across the U.S. that contribute to the quality of life for people living with paralysis. Grants have funded nonprofits, tribal entities, and municipalities for a wide array of projects, programs, and services. That's just part of the legacy of Christopher and Dana Reeve.
After Christopher Reeve was paralyzed in a riding accident in 1995, Reeve became the face of spinal cord injury, unwavering in his pursuit of the world's most advanced research. While he focused on finding cures, Dana wanted to build a support framework for individuals, families, and caregivers impacted by paralysis. They created a culture of hope, and it was contagious.
Quality of Life Grants Program
Pioneered by the late Dana Reeve in 1999, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation established the Quality of Life Grants Program, which awards financial support to nonprofit organizations for programs or projects that foster community engagement and involvement, while promoting health and wellness for individuals living with paralysis.
The goal is to empower individuals living with disabilities and their families by providing grants to nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life through inclusion, access, independence, opportunities for community engagement and life-enhancing endeavors.
Dana Reeve believed the Quality of Life Grants Program is, at its core, about freedom. While working toward a cure, she said, there are millions of people who deserve an improved quality of life. The Foundation carries on this mission today and every day.
In 2024, the Quality of Life Grants Program awarded 73 grants totaling $1,472,579.
Projects and priorities in 2024 included:
- Adaptive Sports
- Facility Accessibility and Modifications
- Therapeutic Horseback Riding
- Transportation
- Fitness and Wellness
- Accessible Community Space
- Accessible Playground/Ballfield
Who can apply?
Applications are welcome from nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status, municipal and state governments, school districts, recognized tribal entities, and other institutions such as community or veterans hospitals.
"We want organizations to know that, wherever they are in the U.S., they are welcome to apply," said Dan McNeal, Director, Quality of Life Grants Program. "There is equal opportunity for everyone here."
Grants are awarded to organizations that address the needs of people living with paralysis caused by spinal cord and other injuries, diseases or birth conditions, including (but not limited to) stroke, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The Quality of Life Grants Program has an immediate and practical impact on people's lives. And that's a legacy to be proud of. For more information about how and when to apply for a grant, visit ChristopherReeve.org/qol.
The National Paralysis Resource Center website is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $8,700,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
