Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I attend a DSUSA chapter event or program?

Find an event or program you’re interested in participating. Contact BreAnne Podgorski at bpodgorski@dsusa.org to register your interest. DSUSA will contact and connect you with the DSUSA chapters to register you for the event and provide you all the information you need. You do not need to complete a grant application form for chapter events or programs.

Q: Does my disability qualify for this program?

The priority of Disabled Sports USA’s programs are to serve individuals with permanent physical disabilities such as spinal cord injury, amputation, traumatic brain injury, vision impairment, and nerve/muscle damage that permanently impedes function.

Q: Can my caregiver attend an event with me?

Yes. A caregiver may attend an event or program with you.

Q: I am a beginner in my chosen sport– does this matter?

No. The purpose of the grant is to support survivors in their chosen sport, at their chosen level of activity, regardless of skill level.

Q: What priorities are you looking for in an application?

In order to strengthen your application, be as complete as possible in answering each question. We want to know how our grant will positively impact your future athletic or fitness goals. Remember to show how you are training in the sport on an ongoing basis and tie any event requests back to this. We will fund event or program expenses that demonstrate your sufficient long term interest in the sport or commitment to staying fit.

Q: When can I apply for a grant?

Grant cycles are open from January to September.

Q: How much can I apply for and how often?

Grants awarded range from $500-$1,500 and vary by program and specified need. Applicants are able to apply up to twice a year for a maximum of $2,500 grant total per survivor.

Q: What is a “partial grant award”?

We aim to strike a delicate balance between fulfilling grant requests and making as much of an impact as possible. If we paid 100% of every grant request, we would have to severely limit the number of grants we award. By giving partial grants we are able to do the greater good for more people. If you are able to afford part of your grant request, please indicate it by checking the “partial grant” box on the application form.

Q: When will I be notified of whether or not I’ve received a grant?

All applicants will be notified of their grant status within 14 business days of the application submission. Grantees will be provided with the appropriate paperwork to complete their grant reporting and will be sent Disabled Sports USA apparel to be worn during participation.

Q: What should I include in my grant report?

Your written report does not need to be lengthy. For example, if you participated in a competition, we are interested in your experience results, whether you achieved your initial goal and how this experience has impacted your future fitness or athletic goals. Report and pictures along with receipts must be submitted within four weeks post event or program via this link for grant to be dispersed.

Should you have any questions that need answering prior to completing your grant application, please contact: BreAnne Podgorski, bpodgorski@dsusa.org or (301) 217-9842.

Ready to apply? Click here.