Ways to Give

We recruit new members.

Lakeshore’s 3,367 members have the opportunity to participate in 92 aquatic, fitness and recreation programs, a dozen competitive sports, 25 research studies and 14 advocacy initiatives.

“Everyone has been a blessing to me, the members, the staff, and I really don’t believe they realize they make the difference they make in the lives of others.” – Patricia Leonard, became a Lakeshore member after receiving a free guest pass from a friend

We send kids to camp.

This year over 150 kids attended summer camp. They swam, ran, skied, became more independent and formed new relationships.

“Lakeshore provides a way for me to have fun with no obstacles.” – Heath Horne

We engage our veterans.

Over the past 10 years, Lakeshore has introduced more than 2,600 injured service men and women from 47 states and territories to adapted sports and recreation activities they can take back to their communities.

“Words cannot express the gratitude we have of this program. Lakeshore has taught us that disability is just a word that cannot hold us back from doing what we want to do. They have shined a light in our life and have gone beyond the call. We are forever grateful.” – the Medinas family 

We test game-changing equipment.

Lakeshore’s extensive array of adapted sport and fitness equipment allows members to take their physical activity to the next level. 

“Because of the equipment at Lakeshore, I am now pushing 12,000 times and traveling almost seven miles at wheelchair rugby practice!” -Sid Christian, Quad Rider Cycling Study

We develop new fitness programs.

Since the formation of the UAB/Lakeshore Research Collaborative, nearly 2,000 individuals have participated in over 40 studies that investigate new ways to be physically active.

“I came on days when I felt challenged physically, and I was intimidated at first. But when I started exercising, I felt better. I have fallen in love with the recreation cycling program. My legs are getting stronger, and I’m seeing other health benefits.” -Maria George, LEADERS study

We advance women’s rights.

Globally, only seven percent of women with a disability participate in sport. Lakeshore brought together 30 female athletes with a disability from around the world as part of the Women with Disability in Sport Roundtable to change this statistic. They shared perspective, initiated dialogue, and developed strategies to move the needle toward inclusion of all women and girls in sport, including leadership roles, coaching, sports administration and media visibility.

“The world of women with disabilities in sport will change from this moment on. As these roundtables continue, we can start a movement that will empower young women and let them see all the possibilities with the support of past and current athletes.” -Hope Lewellen, Paralympian

We increase access to transportation.

People without access to a personal vehicle have few transportation options to medical care, grocery stores, merchandise, and other essential services in the Jefferson County area, including Lakeshore Foundation.

“Without accessible transportation, I simply wouldn’t be able to be employed, much less be a part of my community.” – Aimee Bruder, full-time front desk professional at Lakeshore Foundation