What's Happening?
The High Fives Foundation, based in Truckee, California, has announced a significant leadership evolution aimed at enhancing its adaptive sports programs. The foundation has appointed three new board members: Craig Abruzzo, Michael Resnick, and Lonnie
Paxton, and elevated Katie Besso to Board Chair. Additionally, Jesse Alberi and Ryan Bodine have joined the team to support program expansion and athlete storytelling. This leadership change is part of the foundation's commitment to community-driven, culture-first leadership, focusing on providing access and support to individuals with life-changing injuries. The new leaders bring diverse experiences from finance, professional sports, and adaptive program innovation, all united by a shared belief in the foundation's mission.
Why It's Important?
The leadership changes at High Fives Foundation are crucial as they aim to expand the foundation's reach and impact in the adaptive sports community. By bringing in leaders with personal experiences in sports and recovery, the foundation strengthens its ability to connect with and support individuals facing life-changing injuries. This evolution reflects a broader trend in nonprofit leadership, emphasizing lived experience and community engagement. The foundation's focus on adaptive sports not only promotes inclusivity but also highlights the importance of providing opportunities for all individuals to participate in outdoor activities, regardless of physical limitations. This approach can inspire other organizations to adopt similar inclusive practices.
What's Next?
As the High Fives Foundation continues to expand its programs and partnerships, the new leadership team will focus on maintaining the organization's culture of inclusivity and community support. The foundation plans to grow its adaptive sports programs nationally, offering more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in activities like skiing and snowboarding. The leadership team will also work on strengthening storytelling efforts to raise awareness and support for adaptive sports. This expansion could lead to increased collaboration with other organizations and potential policy changes to improve accessibility in sports and outdoor activities.
