About Us
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.
BASH EVENT OVERVIEW Video
History & Background
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. The program was hosted by the City of Boca Raton 2009-2011. Jay Van Vechten, an original founder, was handed the reins and vowed to keep the program going with the help of a new board and a core of dedicated volunteers.
Now in its 15th year, the Bash is the largest, free, fun-filled annual program for children and adults with physical and or intellectual challenges and their families and caregivers in the nation.
A Volunteer Led Coalition was Established in 2008
The American Disabilities Foundation (ADF hereafter), a volunteer led coalition was established in 2008, originally to provide opportunities and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. ADF’s signature event is the Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities, also referred to as “The Bash” now in its 15th year. We achieve our mission to serve those with physical & neurological challenges through programs that enhance and support participants’ emotional, psychological, and physical health by providing opportunities that the population may not otherwise be able to achieve.
We believe that every individual deserves access to the beach and waterways of South Florida.
Everyone Deserves Their Day in the Sun!
- 25%
Did you know? 1 in 5 Americans have a disability, seen or unseen. In Palm Beach County, it’s 1 in 4 – 25% of our community.
Mission & Purpose
“The mission of the 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.”
Vision & Aspiration
The American Disabilities Foundation has not only continued the Boating & Beach Bash, but also has continuously expanded and diversified the scope of the program. It is cemented in South Florida as a program that can be relied upon to deliver fun, health, education, encouragement, and a day of joy to every participant each year. In the years to come, we have plans to support other cities/communities that have shown interest in starting programs like the Bash in their area.
We are communicating with interested groups nationwide and have started developing a comprehensive manual that details how to replicate our program. ADF is working to establish two new programs throughout the year. We envision these programs to provide opportunities for positive social interaction while connecting to resources, health education, and adapted activities. Possibilities include specializing these programs toward specific areas of concern for the special needs community.
Our flagship program, the Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities
American Disabilities Foundation (ADF)
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Address
American Disabilities
Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 99.
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Federal ID# 46-4699013