“When I take off my legs, I feel just as strong and capable as the stand-up skiers next to me or the upright cyclists or Olympic cyclists. I feel empowered, capable and strong and when I compete in sports, I never think about what I can’t do physically,” said Oksana Masters — Paralympic Gold Medalist, Team Toyota Athlete, CAF Mentor, and Grant Recipient.

Oksana’s powerful words capture the spirit of what mobility means — the ability to move freely, to compete, to connect, and to live life on one’s own terms. At Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), we believe that movement is not a privilege but a fundamental human right. Our partnership with Toyota, our Official Mobility and Vehicle Sponsor, reflects this shared belief.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

Dedra DeLilli, Group Manager of Sponsorship, Integration & Auto Shows at Toyota Motor North America, emphasizes the synergy between the two organizations:

“We share many of the same values and beliefs with the Challenged Athletes Foundation which makes this a great partnership. Our continued work with CAF and the amazing Paralympians on Team Toyota helps in elevating awareness that when a person is free to move, anything is possible.”

Toyota’s commitment goes beyond sponsorship. Their support helps CAF provide adaptive sports equipment, coaching, competition travel, and mentorship to athletes with physical disabilities at all levels — from emerging athletes to Paralympic champions.

Empowering the Next Generation of Athletes

The impact of this partnership is most visible in the stories of athletes like Oksana Masters, wheelchair basketball legend Steve Serio, and multiple Paralympic medalist Jessica Long. These athletes have walked the path, overcoming immense challenges, and now serve as mentors for younger athletes just beginning their journey.

By sharing their experiences, training tips, and encouragement, these trailblazers help nurture the next generation of adaptive athletes. Their leadership fosters community and inspires others to embrace movement and sports as pathways to empowerment.

Supporting Movement Across Sports and Events

CAF’s partnership with Toyota extends far beyond athlete mentorship. Toyota provides CAF with co-branded vehicles — two Toyota Sequoias and one Toyota Sienna — which play a critical role in supporting our programs and events across California and Idaho.

These vehicles are instrumental in CAF’s winter and summer clinics, transporting adaptive sports equipment, and serving as support vehicles in grueling endurance events. For example, during the 640-mile Million Dollar Challenge bike ride along the California coast, Toyota vehicles provided essential support to riders and staff.

In 2020, Toyota vehicles were the chase cars for the Smoke ‘n Fire 400 — a demanding, self-supported 400-mile bike race in Idaho’s rugged terrain, where CAF athletes competed as the first adaptive team in the event’s history.

Mobility as a Human Right: Fueling Independence and Confidence

The collaboration between CAF and Toyota is more than a sponsorship — it’s a movement to break down barriers, foster independence, and elevate the voices of athletes with disabilities.

Through access to innovative adaptive sports equipment, expert coaching, and community mentorship, these athletes gain confidence, independence, and the chance to compete on a level playing field.

Together, CAF and Toyota are driving a future where every individual, regardless of physical ability, can experience the freedom and joy that comes from movement.

Join Us in Supporting Mobility and Movement for All

The journey to empower athletes through movement continues every day, fueled by partnerships, community support, and stories of resilience. You can help us push boundaries and break barriers.

Support CAF’s mission to provide adaptive sports equipment, training, and mentorship by learning more about our programs or joining an upcoming event like the Million Dollar Challenge (MDC).