The ladies of CAWES/iFractal powered by Specialized and the IM ABLE foundation joined forces in 2011 to create a special partnership.

CAWES first met Chris and Gretchen Kaag, the founders of the IM ABLE organization at the Grandview Grand Prix in July 2010.  The event, sponsored by our friends at Thru-It-All-Cycling included a brand new category for handcycles.  With 24 registered competitors in the event, the field was nearly as large as the Womens' 1/2/3 category.  To "see" this event, please visit Joe Mallis' photography site!  After speaking to both Chris and Gretchen about the foundation, their mission, and their goals for the upcoming year, CAWES made the easy decision to partner with IM ABLE to help see those goals to fruition.

With the simple tagline, "Get Up and Move," the IM ABLE foundation encourages all individuals, especially those with disabilities, to cultivate active lifestyles.  Created in 2007, the IM ABLE foundation raises money to purchase hand cycles and modified equipment for individuals in need.  The foundation is active in its community providing a network of support for individuals of all capabilities and Chris works tirelessly to promote the notion that a healthy mind and body are fundamental! 

In partnering with IM ABLE, CAWES will work to:

• open lines of communication with promoters to add more hand cycling events to the local race calendar 
• partner disabled athletes with able bodied athletes for rides/challenges/races and other events (i.e., parties!)
• use our big mouths and social media outlets to tell EVERYONE we know about this amazing foundation.

For additional information, to donate to the cause, to volunteer your time, or just to check it out and be inspired, please visit IM ABLE at the following sites:

IM ABLE Foundation home page

IM ABLE Donation page

Chris Kaag's Blog