Milestones
In 1976, Achilles' late founder Dick Traum crossed the finish line of the New York City Marathon as the first person with a prosthetic leg to do so and helped spark a movement that continues to transform lives around the world. To commemorate this historic anniversary, Achilles International is launching the Milestones campaign with a goal of raising $262,000—a lofty goal but one representative of every challenging mile in the 26.2 marathon distance. Every dollar raised will help ensure that athletes with disabilities have access to the programs, equipment, volunteer guides, and community that make achievement possible. Together, we are celebrating where we began while investing in the next generation of athletes as they continue to break down barriers to participation.
Building the Next Fifty Years
What started with one historic marathon finish has become a global community of thousands with 62 chapters worldwide, creating opportunities for athletes with disabilities to train, compete, and belong. Support for the Milestones Campaign will help Achilles:
- Expand free adaptive athletic programming in communities around the world.
- Increase access to adaptive equipment and trained volunteer guides.
- Remove financial barriers to participation through grants and race support.
- Grow opportunities for youth, veterans, and athletes of all ages and abilities.
- Inspire the next fifty years of achievement, inclusion, and possibility.
Every finish line begins with the decision to start. Together, we can ensure that more athletes with disabilities have that same opportunity.
