Fundraise Your Way: Turning Passions into Purpose for CAF
Fundraise Your Way: Turning Passions into Purpose for CAF
By Christy Fritts
When it comes to making a difference, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—especially at the Challenged Athletes Foundation. We believe that fundraising should be personal, creative, and as unique as the individual behind it. Whether you’re climbing mountains, baking cookies, or dreaming up your own business, every effort helps empower athletes with physical disabilities to live active, fulfilling lives.
Some of our most impactful fundraisers start with a simple idea—and a lot of heart.
Meet Mason Fee, a 10-year-old entrepreneur who turned a class project into a mission-driven small business called Portulan, built on the belief that sports are for everyone. Joined by his mom and business partner Candace and inspired by his dad, a CAF-supported adaptive athlete, Mason designs, produces, and sells custom candles and merchandise. He even taught himself the chemistry behind candle making! Most importantly, 100% of Portulan’s proceeds go to CAF, helping athletes with physical disabilities get the equipment, coaching, and support they need to thrive. Mason set out to raise $1,000…and surpassed $11,000 in just a few months. Watch Mason’s story here.
Lucy Charles-Barclay, the reigning Ironman World Champion, is also putting purpose into motion. Lucy is offering personalized video shoutouts on Cameo, with all proceeds benefiting CAF. Whether it’s a birthday wish, race-day pep talk, or a message of motivation, Lucy’s outreach helps fuel access to sport for those who need it most. Her campaign is a perfect example of how turning your platform—or your passion—into action can have a profound impact. Check it out here.
Your Passion. Your Platform. Your Way.
The best part of fundraising your way? You get to decide how it happens.
Host a virtual trivia night. Organize a community hike. Auction your artwork. Hold a backyard concert or a goat yoga class. Whether you’re into music, fitness, crafting, comedy, or TikTok, there’s a way to turn your passion into progress for adaptive athletes.
At CAF, we’ve seen lemonade stands raise thousands, art classes build awareness, and athletic feats bring entire communities together. What makes it powerful isn’t the size—it’s the heart behind it.
Ready to Get Started?
1. Pick your passion – What lights you up?
2. Get creative – Turn that into a fundraising opportunity.
3. Share your story – Let people know why CAF matters to you.
4. Make it fun – It’s about joy, community, and making an impact.
Visit our Fundraise Your Way page for ideas, resources, and inspiration.