In the world of sports, the right fuel and the right equipment can make all the difference. For the CEO of Smoothie King, Wan Kim, the desire to make a charitable impact wasn’t just about donating—it was about finding a partner whose mission aligned perfectly with his vision to inspire healthy, active living. In 2017, Smoothie King found that partner in the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF). Since then, the two have worked side by side to remove barriers, create opportunities, and fuel athletes with permanent physical disabilities to reach their goals. 

Smoothie King’s mission—helping people achieve their health and fitness potential—mirrors CAF’s belief that access to sport changes lives. CAF provides grants for adaptive sports equipment and hosts clinics to develop skills and confidence, while Smoothie King fuels journeys with thoughtfully chosen ingredients like whole non-GMO fruits and organic vegetables. Together, this powerful partnership has created a ripple effect—empowering thousands of athletes and inspiring communities to embrace the benefits of active living. 

Game-Changing Moments in Action 

In February 2023, CAF and Smoothie King brought that mission to life in New Orleans, hosting a wheelchair basketball clinic for local athletes. Among them was Adam Sivia, a kindergarten teacher and high school football coach who lost both legs after being struck by a motorist during Mardi Gras in 2021. That day, Adam learned new skills alongside his teammates with guidance from New Orleans Pelicans players. The next night, at Smoothie King Center, Adam received a surprise CAF grant for a Per4Max custom basketball wheelchair—right in the middle of a game. The crowd’s cheers matched the impact of the moment, marking the fifth consecutive year Smoothie King, the Pelicans, and CAF teamed up to make life-changing dreams a reality. 

That same spirit of empowerment extended to younger athletes at the inaugural Rule The Day Youth Camp in 2022. Designed to bring together kids with and without physical disabilities, the camp opened with a surprise for 14-year-old Lilly Biagini, who was born with a rare disorder and had both legs amputated at age six. Dallas Cowboys legend Chad Hennings presented Lilly with two running prosthetics from Smoothie King and CAF—equipment that would help her continue wake surfing, horseback riding, golfing, snowboarding, and running. 

The partnership’s reach goes beyond camps and clinics. Drew Brees, former New Orleans Saints quarterback and former Smoothie King ambassador, has also lent his voice and time to the cause. He joined CAF athletes, including Paralympic champions Steve Serio (wheelchair basketball) and Bethany Zummo (sitting volleyball), and wrestling phenom Zion Clark for an afternoon of adaptive sports. Inspired by what he experienced, Brees surprised 12-year-old WCMX athlete Albee Granillo of Escondido, CA, with a CAF grant for a new skate wheelchair. 

More Than a Sponsorship—A Shared Purpose 

These stories represent more than one-off events—they’re proof of a shared purpose. Smoothie King and CAF believe that active lifestyles build confidence, open doors, and inspire people to see what’s possible. By bringing athletes into the spotlight and giving them the resources to succeed, the partnership is shaping communities that value inclusion and celebrate determination. 

“Our commitment to supporting the communities we serve is evident at every touchpoint of our brand, but none more so than our partnership with the Challenged Athletes Foundation,” said Wan Kim, CEO of Smoothie King. “Both of our brands believe strongly that active lifestyles can boost self-esteem and serve as a springboard for success in life—whether you’re faced with a physical disability or not. This partnership will expose our guests to inspirational stories of athletes who’ve met their goals against the odds, and we hope these stories inspire everyone to set and reach their own health and wellness goals.” 

For Kim, this commitment is personal. Fitness is part of his daily life, from morning workouts to clean eating. His own routine often starts with an Espresso High Protein Almond Mocha smoothie, followed by a Vegan Mango Kale smoothie for lunch, and capped off with a Gladiator smoothie before hitting the gym. It’s this passion for health—and belief in fueling potential—that drives Smoothie King’s ongoing partnership with CAF. 

How This Partnership Fuels Possibilities 

Smoothie King and CAF aren’t just aligned in values—they’re aligned in action. Together, they’ve provided: 

• Access to adaptive sports clinics across the country. 

• Grants for specialized equipment like racing chairs, running prosthetics, and basketball wheelchairs. 

• Inclusive events that bring together athletes with and without physical disabilities. 

• National awareness moments that inspire communities to embrace active, healthy living. 

This collaboration continues to expand the reach of adaptive sports while inspiring athletes—and those cheering them on—to push their limits. 

Be Part of the Movement That Fuels Potential 

Every smoothie served and every grant awarded represents another step toward a healthier, more inclusive world. Explore more stories of athletes breaking barriers, see how Smoothie King and CAF are teaming up to create opportunities, and find ways you can join in.