Our Impact By the Numbers
DASA is honored to help our athletes change their lives in dramatic and positive ways. But don’t just take our word for it – take a look at our impact by the numbers.
Approximately 21 million Americans, including military veterans, have a physical disability; 38.2% suffer from obesity and 16.3% become diabetic. Research shows that daily physical activity and the power of sport enhances self-esteem and peer relationships and results in increased achievement and better health, enabling a higher quality of life. DASA sees these same results in thousands of athletes across Missouri – it is what motivates us every day to be there for these individuals.
Physical Health
Athletes who participate in DASA programs report overall improved physical health, improved strength and endurance and improved mobility skills. For example, ability gained on the court can make it easier to get out of bed, be active in the community, and be independent in daily living.
Social & Emotional Health
DASA witnesses how participating in sports teaches individuals to set personal goals, be better self-advocates, and develop a stronger sense of purpose. We also see how being successful in sport teaches parents that their child or loved one is ABLE rather than focusing on their challenges. DASA foundationally builds a sense of family and bonding through shared experiences among individuals with physical disabilities.
| 3,000+ | athletes and their families helped annually. |
| 45 | military veterans at DASA are gaining strength and learning a functional new way of life. |
| 98% | of DASA athletes report that involvement with DASA has helped them increase their overall health and well-being. |
| 90% | of DASA athletes report engaging in the recommended amount of physical activity suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and other health agencies (60 minutes/day for youth; 120 minutes/week for adults). |
| 98% | of individuals report increasing their overall strength and endurance thanks to participation in DASA sport and fitness programs. |
| 85% | of individuals new to DASA programs report that they are exercising more than they did one year ago. |
| 60% | of program participants said that skills learned in DASA programs caused them to see improvements in school/work performance. |
| 91% | of program participants report improved self-esteem. |
| 80% | of program participants report increased independence. |
| 80% | of respondents’ family members report being less enabling or codependent. |
Your Support of DASA is Critical to Our Athletes’ Lives
It is our mission that all individuals who live with a physical or visual disability, deafness, or hearing impairment have the opportunity to participate in DASA sports and fitness activities designed to improve self-esteem, growth, and well-being while instilling family values.
Your support is critical to helping us carry out this mission and enabling our community of athletes with disabilities to realize their ABILITY to thrive. Help us make an impact! Contact us today if you would like to become a sponsor, donate, or host an event.
We would love to learn more about your fitness needs and how DASA can help, please do not hesitate to reach out!
