High Fives Nonprofit Foundation

What High Fives Nonprofit Foundation does

High Fives Nonprofit Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization headquartered in Truckee, California, founded in 2009 by Roy Tuscany after his own spinal cord injury from a 2006 skiing accident. Its core mission is supporting adaptive athletes with life-changing injuries (spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, amputations) and promoting injury prevention in outdoor sports. The foundation runs six core programs: the Empowerment Fund (multi-category grant program covering adaptive equipment, medical equipment, healing networks, living expenses, and program costs), B.A.S.I.C.S. (snow safety and helmet-use education), Military to the Mountains (free adaptive skiing/snowboarding for veterans and first responders), the CR Johnson Healing Center (10,000 sq/ft training facility also serving as HQ), Return to Dirt (adaptive motorsports/UTV program), and Access Unlimited (adaptive fishing). It has disbursed over $12M, funded 1,900+ grants, served 1,000+ athletes across 47 states/territories and Canada, and hosted 35,000+ Healing Center visits since 2010.

The business model is donation-dependent, with revenue from individual giving (one-time and recurring subscriptions from $5-$55/month via the High Fives Helpers program), corporate sponsorships (GoPro, Smith Optics, Burton, Palisades Tahoe, Vail Resorts, Can-Am, YETI, K2, Monster Energy), grant revenue, and merchandise via shop.highfivesfoundation.org ($14-$42.95 items). Planned giving vehicles include wills, retirement accounts, life insurance, charitable trusts, endowment funds, and stock donations. GTM is direct-to-consumer via digital content (YouTube, blog, email, social), events (charity golf, Shred-A-Thon series, adaptive surf camps), earned media (ESPN, Powder Magazine, Sierra Sun), and an online grant application portal. There is no app, API, SDK, or proprietary AI/technology infrastructure disclosed.

The foundation maintains a distributed operating model with 30+ staff across Truckee CA HQ, South Lake Tahoe, Warren VT, Glenwood Springs CO, BC Canada, and other locations, alongside a 12+ Board of Directors and 20+ Board of Trustees. Strategic priorities are evidenced by continued tier-1 partner additions, East Coast buildout via Vermont Adaptive and Sugarbush Resort, new program launches (Mental Health resources, Access Unlimited), and sustained transparency credentials including Candid Platinum (2026), Great Nonprofits Top-Rated (2013-2022 and 2025), and California Non-Profit of the Year (2021).

Name

High Fives Nonprofit Foundation

Legal name

High Fives Non-Profit Foundation

Website

https://highfivesfoundation.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

2009

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

High Fives Nonprofit Foundation is a 501(c)(3) adaptive sports nonprofit based in Truckee, CA that funds grants, training, and programs for athletes with life-changing injuries across 47 states and Canada, anchored by a 10,000 sq/ft Healing Center.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Adaptive Sports Nonprofit Services

NAICS

Grantmaking Foundations (813211), Voluntary Health Organizations (813212), Grantmaking and Giving Services (81321), Vocational Rehabilitation Services (62431)

SIC

Services-Social Services (8300), Services-Educational Services (8200)

akta.pro primary industry

Disability & Adaptive Sports Organizations (Paralympic, Special Olympics) (MPAKACAH)

akta.pro secondary industries

Athletics Fundraising, Sponsorships & NIL Support (EDALAIAN), Disability Services & Independent Living Support (BPAGACAG), Adventure Therapy & Therapeutic Wilderness Programs (THAAAOAG)

Keywords

• Adaptive sports grants
• Injury prevention education
• Adaptive athlete rehabilitation
• Veteran ski program
• Nonprofit foundation services

Headquarters

HQ city

Truckee

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Others

Revenue model

1. Individual Donations: Direct donations from individuals supporting the adaptive sports mission. Options include one-time donations, monthly recurring donations (High Fives Helpers program starting at $5/month), and planned giving vehicles.
2. Merchandise Sales: Online store selling branded merchandise including apparel, accessories, and co-branded products with partners. E-commerce storefront at shop.highfivesfoundation.org.
3. Corporate Partnerships: Sponsorship and partnership revenue from brands including GoPro, Smith Optics, Burton, Palisades Tahoe, and others. Includes Five for Fives program where partners donate a portion of sales.
4. Planned Giving: Legacy giving options including wills, retirement accounts, life insurance, charitable trusts, endowment funds, and stock donations.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

High Fives Foundation provides financial grants, rehabilitation resources, and adaptive sports programs to individuals who have sustained life-changing injuries, with a focus on action and outdoor sports athletes. Through its Empowerment Fund it disburses grants across nine categories (adaptive sports equipment, healing network, medical equipment, programs, living expenses, and injury-related costs), operates the 10,000 sq/ft CR Johnson Healing Center training facility in Truckee, CA, and delivers free programs including Military to the Mountains (adaptive skiing/snowboarding for injured veterans and first responders), Return to Dirt (adaptive UTV motorsports), Access Unlimited (adaptive fishing), and B.A.S.I.C.S. (snow safety and helmet awareness education). The foundation also serves veterans and first responders with adaptive sports programs and provides mental health resources to athletes in recovery.

Product overview

High Fives Foundation is an adaptive sports nonprofit organization operating as a platform of grant programs and community services. The core offerings include the Empowerment Fund (grants for adaptive equipment and rehabilitation), B.A.S.I.C.S. (safety awareness education), Military to the Mountains (veteran ski program), CR Johnson Healing Center (10,000 sq/ft training facility), Return to Dirt (adaptive motorsports), Access Unlimited (adaptive fishing), and Adaptive Sports Programs (ski, surf, bike, fish, and dirt sports). The foundation serves athletes with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and other life-changing injuries through financial support, community building, and direct programming.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Empowerment Fund: Grant program providing adaptive sports equipment, rehabilitation resources, and financial support for athletes with life-changing injuries.
• B.A.S.I.C.S.
• Military to the Mountains
• CR Johnson Healing Center
• Return to Dirt
• Access Unlimited

Products and services

• Empowerment Fund Grant-making program that funds adaptive sports equipment, healing network support, medical equipment, programs, living expenses, and injury-related costs for athletes with life-changing injuries. Since 2009 it has disbursed $12 million+ across 1,900+ grants covering nine funding categories.
• B.A.S.I.C.S. (Being Aware Safe in Critical Situations) Safety education program delivering world-class snow-safety and helmet-awareness video presentations and curriculum to outdoor action sports enthusiasts, including the #HelmetsAreCool initiative and a summer camp hosted with Woodward Tahoe.
• Military to the Mountains (M2M) Free adaptive skiing and snowboarding program for injured veterans and first responders that combines 9 weeks of personal training with 1 week of adaptive skiing/snowboarding at partner resorts including Palisades Tahoe, Solitude Mountain Resort, Vail Resorts/EpicPromise, and Sugarbush. Since 2015 it has supported 290+ veteran and first responder experiences.
• CR Johnson Healing Center 10,000 sq/ft physical training facility at 10775 Pioneer Trail, Suite 108, Truckee, CA providing free in-person rehabilitation, training resources, and equipment access to athletes recovering from life-changing injuries; also serves as the foundation's headquarters. Recipients include adaptive athletes, veterans, and first responders. Has logged 35,000+ visits since opening in August 2011.
• Return to Dirt Adaptive motorsports program that provides UTV equipment, instruction, and adapted vehicles (via partner Can-Am/BRP, Yokohama tires, and YETI gear) so individuals with disabilities can pilot off-road vehicles into backcountry areas otherwise inaccessible due to mobility impairment. Since 2018 it has logged 246 athlete experiences and 7,998 UTV miles.
• Access Unlimited Adaptive fishing and outdoor experiences program under the FISH pillar that awakens the spirit of adventure in those facing life-changing injuries or disabilities.
• Adaptive Sports Programs Umbrella for adaptive athlete programming in skiing, snowboarding, surfing, mountain biking, fishing, and motorsports, supported by an athlete ambassador network of 1,000+ athletes.
• Mental Health Resources Mental health resources and therapeutic support offerings for athletes in recovery from life-changing injuries, addressing the mental-health side of rehabilitation.
• High Fives Helpers Monthly Giving Program Monthly recurring donation membership program with four tiers ($5, $10, $25, $55/month) that bundles branded merchandise stickers, pins, long sleeves, and hoodies alongside the donation.
• Branded Merchandise Store Online merchandise storefront at shop.highfivesfoundation.org selling High Fives-branded apparel, accessories, and co-branded partner products at price points from $14 to $42.95.

Quantifiable outcome

• $12 Million+ disbursed since 2009, with over 1,900 grants funded
• +5 more outcomes

Named customers9 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

53 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and minor.

• Swift InstitutecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerHealthcare partnership providing spine orthopedic, neurosurgery, interventional pain management, neurology, imaging, and vein specialists across Nevada locations. Part of HOPCo network with over 70 specialists.
• GoPromajorGTM or Marketing PartnerTechnology and content partner providing cameras for documenting athlete experiences. GoPro helps capture and share lives' most meaningful experiences.
• Smith OpticsmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerEyewear and helmet partner providing protective gear for adaptive athletes. Smith is known for sunglasses, snow goggles, helmets, and prescription eyewear.
• Burton SnowboardsmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerSnowboarding equipment partner supporting adaptive snowboarding programs. Burton designs and manufactures industry-leading snowboarding products.
• Palisades TahoecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerHost of 1960 Winter Olympics, provides ski resort access for Military to Mountains program and adaptive sports activities at their Lake Tahoe location.
• One Toyota of OaklandmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerVehicle partner providing transportation support for programs. One Toyota serves Bay Area drivers with new and used vehicles.
• Dolan Auto GroupmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerAutomotive partner in Reno, NV providing vehicle support for foundation operations and programs.
• Yokohama TiremajorGTM or Marketing PartnerTire partner supporting Return to Dirt adaptive motorsports program with quality off-road tires.
• Sugarbush ResortcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerVermont resort partner helping expand High Fives reach to East Coast through events and adaptive programming.
• Craig HospitalcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerWorld-renowned rehabilitation hospital in Denver specializing in neuro-rehabilitation for spinal cord and brain injuries. Has treated 31,000+ patients since 1956.
• Renown HealthcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerReno's only locally-governed, not-for-profit healthcare network providing medical support and services.
• Adaptive Training FoundationcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerDallas-based nonprofit providing adaptive performance training to veterans and individuals with life-altering injuries. Free services for adaptive athletes.
• City of RenocoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMunicipal partner providing adaptive recreation programs, equipment rentals, and support for Military to Mountains program selection.
• Vail Resorts (EpicPromise)majorGTM or Marketing PartnerResort company committed to environmental responsibility, community support, and accessibility/inclusivity in sport.
• One Percent for the PlanetminorGTM or Marketing PartnerEnvironmental pledge organization. High Fives donates 1% of sales or time to approved environmental causes.
• Monster EnergymajorGTM or Marketing PartnerEnergy drink sponsor supporting adaptive sports and Return to Dirt program through Monster Energy Cares initiatives.
• Neuro Gum & MintsminorGTM or Marketing PartnerWellness product partner founded after founder's life-changing accident, providing energy and focus products.
• Charlotte's WebminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCBD product partner started as a mission to improve lives naturally. Supports foundation's wellness initiatives.
• PistenBullymajorGTM or Marketing PartnerAdaptive equipment partner supporting B.A.S.I.C.S. program and Adaptive Operator Camp with terrain grooming equipment.
• Woodward TahoecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerAction sports training facility hosting B.A.S.I.C.S. Summer Camp with $50 per camper donated to foundation.
• Solitude Mountain ResortcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerUtah resort partner for Military to Mountains program providing skiing and snowboarding experiences.
• Can-Am (BRP)majorGTM or Marketing PartnerOff-road vehicle manufacturer providing UTVs for Return to Dirt adaptive motorsports program.
• YETImajorGTM or Marketing PartnerOutdoor gear partner providing coolers and equipment for Return to Dirt program and events.
• K2 SportsmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerSki equipment partner supporting Military to Mountains and adaptive skiing programs.
• Dynastar/LangemajorGTM or Marketing PartnerSki and boot manufacturer partner supporting adaptive skiing programs.
• Darn Tough VermontminorGTM or Marketing PartnerSock manufacturer providing footwear for athletes and events. Made in Vermont with lifetime guarantee.
• Arcade BeltsminorGTM or Marketing PartnerBelt manufacturer donating $3 per High Fives Throttle Glove sale to foundation.
• FlylowminorGTM or Marketing PartnerSki and outdoor apparel partner providing gear for athletes and events.
• Armada SkisminorGTM or Marketing PartnerSki manufacturer pledging $3 per High Fives Throttle Glove to foundation.
• Big AgnesminorGTM or Marketing PartnerOutdoor camping gear partner providing tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads.
• YakimaminorGTM or Marketing PartnerVehicle rack and cargo solution partner for outdoor gear transportation.
• Phunkshun WearminorGTM or Marketing PartnerFace gear manufacturer pledging $0.05 per mask sold to foundation since 2014.
• Kelly Brush FoundationcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerVermont-based nonprofit providing grants for adaptive equipment to those with spinal cord injuries.
• Vermont Adaptive Ski and SportscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerLargest year-round disabled sports nonprofit in Vermont offering diverse program opportunities.
• National Ski PatrolminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerProfessional organization of registered ski patrols providing safety training and emergency responder support.
• Semper Fi & America's FundminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerMilitary support organization providing immediate and lifetime assistance to service members and veterans.
• Hope For The WarriorsminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerVeterans support organization serving Post 9/11 service members and families of the fallen.
• Paralyzed Veterans of AmericaminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerNational organization supporting research and grants for those living with Spinal Cord Injury and Disease.
• The Independence FundminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerVeterans organization focusing on innovative mobility, adaptive technologies, and suicide prevention.
• One Tribe FoundationminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerVeteran and first responder foundation combating suicide through traditional and non-traditional therapies.
• Waco SurfminorGTM or Marketing PartnerTexas surf resort with opt-in $5 donation option per participant at checkout for High Fives athletes.
• GogglesocminorGTM or Marketing PartnerGoggle cover brand and 1% for the Planet member creating sustainable outdoor products.
• LEKIminorGTM or Marketing PartnerWorld's leading ski, trekking, and Nordic walking pole manufacturer for over 60 years.
• Kind DesignminorGTM or Marketing PartnerArt-inspired outdoor apparel brand donating 25% of co-branded product proceeds to foundation.
• NUTRISHOP USAminorGTM or Marketing PartnerDietary supplement retailer supporting health and fitness goals with quality products.
• Kokopelli PackraftminorGTM or Marketing PartnerDenver-based packraft manufacturer enabling outdoor exploration in serene settings.
• Tender BellyminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPork product company committed to quality and bringing happiness through food.
• Party Shirt InternationalminorGTM or Marketing PartnerT-shirt company donating 40% of High Fives collab product proceeds to foundation.
• Ski Town All StarsminorGTM or Marketing PartnerVail-based premium hat company supporting local community and giving back.
• DieCutStickers.comminorGTM or Marketing PartnerVinyl diecut sticker manufacturer serving over 1,700 clients in 6 countries.
• MagpedminorGTM or Marketing PartnerMagnetic pedal manufacturer for downhill riding, supporting adaptive cycling.
• Brownstein Hyatt Farber SchreckminorOthers300+ attorney law firm in 12 offices providing legal services across real estate, government relations, corporate law, and litigation.
• WintersteigerminorGTM or Marketing PartnerInternational machinery company providing innovative solutions for specialized niche markets.

Scale indicators10 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Kelly Brush Foundation: Vermont-based 501(c)(3) providing grants for adaptive equipment to individuals with spinal cord injuries. Explicitly named as a strategic partner of High Fives and operates the same SCI-focused grantmaking model.
• Adaptive Training Foundation: Dallas-based nonprofit providing free adaptive performance training to veterans and individuals with life-altering injuries. Core strategic partner feeding High Fives' Military to the Mountains cohort.
• National Ability Center: Park City, Utah-based nonprofit providing adaptive recreation, outdoor sports, and programs for individuals with disabilities. Geographic and programmatic peer of High Fives' CR Johnson Healing Center programming.
• Challenge Athletes Foundation: San Diego-based nonprofit granting adaptive sports equipment, coaching, and competition opportunities nationwide. Closest direct peer in mission, structure, and adaptive-sports grantmaking model.
• Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: Largest year-round disabled sports nonprofit in Vermont offering adaptive skiing, cycling, paddling, and recreation. Direct strategic partner of High Fives serving overlapping populations and geographies.
• Semper Fi & America's Fund: Military and veteran support organization providing immediate and lifetime assistance for service members. Direct partner of High Fives' Military to Mountains program with overlapping veteran-injury recovery focus.
• Achilles International: Nonprofit enabling people with disabilities to participate in mainstream athletics including running, triathlon, and outdoor events. Comparable adaptive-athlete community-and-grants model.

Broad incumbents

• Move United: National umbrella (formerly Disabled Sports USA / American Association of Adapted Sports Programs) supporting adaptive sports through a network of community-based chapters. Broader, more federated structure but overlapping mission of getting individuals with disabilities active.
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: National nonprofit supporting SCI/D research and grants for veterans. Named partner of High Fives; broader advocacy and policy focus compared to High Fives' sports-recruitment model.

Emerging players

• Shane McConkey Foundation: Smaller ski-community foundation honoring Shane McConkey and supporting positive change in skiing. Smaller-scale, ski-sport-specific grantmaking and outreach.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/user/HighFivesFoundation
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/high-fives-non-profit-foundation

Compliance7 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles6 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about High Fives Nonprofit Foundation