Welcome to the American Disabilities Foundation (ADF)

The American Disabilities Foundation was founded officially as a 501c3 nonprofit organization and began hosting the Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities in 2012.

What We Do

Support ADF

American Disabilities Foundation, Inc. - The Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities is America’s largest free fun-day for people with special needs, their families, and their caregivers.

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About Us

Providing hope, inspiration & a day in the sun for challenged individuals.

The mission of the American Disabilities Foundation (ADF) is to serve those with physical and neurological challenges through programs that enhance and support participants’ emotional, psychological & physical health. We believe that every individual deserves a day in the sun and a chance to discover possibilities for a better life and a day of joy like no other.

The Foundation believes that every individual deserves a day in the sun, a chance to try something they thought out of reach, and to discover possibilities for a better life.

ADF is a 501c3 nonprofit organization

American Disabilities Foundation was founded officially as a 501c3 nonprofit organization and began hosting the Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities in 2012.

LEARN MORE

Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities

The Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities is America’s largest free fun-day for people with special needs, their families, and their caregivers.

LEARN MORE

What is the Boating & Beach Bash?

The Bash is the nation’s largest annual, free, fun event for people with all disabilities (seen or unseen). We are looking forward to hosting the 2025 inaugural Boating & Beach Bash!

Everyone Deserves Their Day in the Sun!

Recap from our past events.

1 in 5 Americans have a disability, seen or unseen. In Palm Beach County, it’s 1 in 4 – 25% of our community.

25% 25%

2025 Event Details

Everyone deserves their day in the sun!

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Community Volunteers

The Bash is completely organized and run by community volunteers. Thank you!

RPYCC

All boats are donated by members of Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club in Boca Raton.

Private Donations & Sponsorship

The Bash is funded through generous private donations and sponsorships.

ADF Overview
The ADF focuses on providing recreational opportunities not typically accessible to our participants, as well as access to medical professionals and trained volunteers who understand how to encourage them to enjoy a broader sense of community. We collaborate with various medical institutions, professionals and volunteers who ensure that participants receive appropriate care and support, including health information and screenings.

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501c3 Nonprofit Organization
The American Disabilities Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, adults and veterans with disabilities in Palm Beach County, Florida. Our mission is to create opportunities for fun, fellowship, and health improvement for those with physical, intellectual and/or neurological challenges. In short, we strive to empower these extraordinary individuals to discover their abilities and improve their overall quality of life.

Leadership

News & Blog

"From the first Bash my daughter and I attended, we were encircled in warmth, love, happiness and a sense of belonging."

— Casey Kolp

Advocacy

Over 13% of Floridians have a disability of some sort (25% in our region). These disabilities, both physical and psychological, are challenging and life-changing. We seek to bring awareness to the many needs of this population.

Access

Many day-to-day things we take for granted are often out of reach for the disabled, such as cultural and sport activities. By providing social integration, we increase independence of these individuals, enhancing their quality of life and combating depression.

Awareness

Disabled people are more likely to experience some type of discrimination. Through awareness and education, we can dispel common misconceptions and stereotypes, influencing public perception and acceptance.

We are thrilled to host this annual day of fun in the sun, adding a splash of joy to the lives of our cherished community. In the spirit of our late co-founder, Jay Van Vechten, we pledge a commitment to advocacy, access and awareness for those with disabilities both seen and unseen.

— Dr. Christopher A. Noe, Board President & Acting CEO

Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities

Our flagship program, the Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities, is the largest free recreational and educational event of its kind in the nation. This annual bash features a wide range of activities and resources, including health screenings, an educational expo, and a mind/ body/spirit center offering yoga, meditation and breathing exercises.

It’s a magnificent day where individuals with special needs are treated as VIPs, leaving no barriers to their participation and enjoyment. Hosted each spring in scenic Spanish River Park of Boca Raton, Florida, the Boating & Beach Bash is meticulously organized by a dedicated committee and board, including over 500 volunteers.