The Kyle Pease Foundation

The Kyle Pease Foundation is entering into its 10th year and we have swiftly become aware that there is still a lot to learn and much we can be doing better. We have learned to excel in certain areas of service, programming, and inclusion; yet understand there is so much more room to grow. 

We are applying not only seeking financial assistance to help KPF launch into the next 10 years, but to also help us seek the support in tapping into our greatest potential.

Winning this award would financially enable us to expand our staffing and thus our outreach and service opportunities.

Our current staff is:

Brent, a full time executive director

Kevin, a full time communications manager (in-chair athlete)

Shawna, less than full time operations and development

Justin, part time donations account manager (in-chair athlete)

Me, Kyle, part time Chief Inspiration Officer (supporting development, programming and everything else! (in-chair athlete)

Support wise, it would enable me and my colleagues to get better at what we do. My brother and I never meant to own a non-profit organization, but here we are. Year 10. We are doing so much but know there is so much more to learn.

KPF was founded in 2011 in response to the pivotal question I asked Brent, “Can people in wheelchairs do IRONMAN?” Upon completing my triathlon supported by both my brothers, I exclaimed that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of competition without the accommodations that so many special needs programs institute. Everyone deserves the opportunity to feel full inclusion, not singled out by special rules.

KPF is more than just about inclusive racing. KPF’s mission is to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities through sport and beyond the finish line. 

This is accomplished because KPF is not just a running team, it is a family. Whether that support is financial or physical, KPF families know we will always be there regardless of their needs.

As we enter into the next chapter of our history, we are focused on expanding our areas of service beyond the Atlanta, GA area and beyond running/triathlon races. 

We currently employ 3 individuals with disabilities and are looking at ways to expand our employment opportunities within our organization to empower our in-chair athletes to expand their horizons and expectations of themselves.

In most states, special needs services significantly decline at age 21. KPF understands that inclusion has no age limit. The CDC states that 1 in 4 adults in the US has a disability and 13.7% of those have a mobility issue. These adults need inclusive activities just as much as children with disabilities need.

KPF provides inclusive opportunities through sports, social opportunities, and employment. While we provide opportunities for those under 21 to participate in activities with us, we have sought ways to secure and provide transportation to those who are no longer receiving the social benefits of being in school. We coordinate opportunities to run local and destination running races and triathlons in addition to organization social opportunities and providing financial support to those who need it.

We are looking to create fully inclusive experiences that show what someone can do rather than what they cannot.  Too often we are labeled and confined to the limitations attached to that label.  The aim of KPF has always been to shatter those confinements. We believe that the journey beyond the finish line is what puts us apart from other organizations.  Showing what people with severe physical limitations can do has long been important to Kyle.

When Justin finished his first IRONMAN, he was asked what he wanted to do next. We expected to hear the next race. He said he wanted a job. He was 30 years old and never had one. KPF has been able to employ Justin around his health and mobility concerns empowering him to be a contributing factor to his family.

Kevin is a nonverbal quadriplegic who uses sight gaze technology to work on his computer. Kevin types about 5 words a minute. He has a degree in journalism, yet field reporting and tight deadlines are not physically possible for him. What is possible? Generating 75% of KPF’s written content! With KPF, Kevin is able to focus on his abilities and talent.

KPF has been actively seeking out others to assist us in our forward progression. We have undergone a case study through BAIN Consulting which helped us assess the needs and wants of our target audience. We have an active Board of Directors. We have created an Athlete Committee whose purpose is to help us find new and innovative ways to support and engage our in-chair athletes and their families. We believe that expanding the hiring of people with disabilities will continue to help us challenge others to reconsider what they view as “possible” for those with disabilities. It is also why KPF is applying for The Elevate Prize.