This Fourth of July, the High Fives Foundation joins communities across the country in celebrating Independence Day and the 250th birthday of the United States. As we honor our nation’s history, we also recognize the many ways independence continues to shape lives every day.
For athletes living with life-changing injuries, independence isn’t just a historic idea—it’s something earned through resilience, determination, and the support of a community that believes anything is possible.
At High Fives Foundation, our mission is to prevent life-changing injuries and provide resources and hope if they happen. Every grant awarded, every adaptive program offered, and every athlete supported is another step toward helping individuals regain confidence, pursue their passions, and live life on their own terms.
One athlete who embodies that spirit is Jordan Lenkin, the 250th athlete supported through the High Fives Foundation.
“Being the 250th athlete supported by High Fives has been about so much more than receiving assistance—it has been about reclaiming my independence. Their support has given me access to resources and equipment that have allowed me to move beyond adapting to living life with a spinal cord injury and instead focus on living a life I’ve always wanted. High Fives has empowered me to return to the activities that bring me purpose, challenge me to grow, and connect me with an incredible community of resilient individuals. As an outdoor athlete, they didn’t just invest in my recovery—they invested in my confidence and my autonomy. Because of their support, I’ve become more independent in the pursuit of my passions and continue to prove to myself that my injury does not define what’s possible. I am incredibly grateful to be part of the High Fives family and proud to represent the impact this organization has for athletes like me.”
— Jordan Lenkin
Jordan’s story is a reminder that freedom takes many forms. It can mean getting back on a bike, returning to the mountains, paddling across a lake, or simply having the confidence to pursue the adventures that once felt out of reach.
As America celebrates 250 years of independence, High Fives Foundation celebrates the independence found through adaptive sport, recovery, and community. Every athlete’s journey reflects the same values of perseverance, courage, and opportunity that have inspired generations.
This Independence Day, we celebrate not only our country’s history but also the athletes who continue to redefine what is possible every single day.
Happy Fourth of July from all of us at the High Fives Foundation.
