Our Impact
Our Impact
Did you know that more than seven million Americans are living with a developmental disability? People with disabilities often encounter barriers that affect their daily lives — limited physical access to shared spaces, challenges with everyday tasks and experiences shaped by their individual needs.
But one of the greatest barriers isn’t physical, it’s societal. Harmful language, outdated perceptions and unfair assumptions can limit how people with disabilities are seen and treated.
At The Ability Experience, we work to build a more inclusive world by fostering empathy, expanding access and creating opportunities for connection. Our programs are designed to encourage meaningful one-on-one interactions, empower shared experiences and build lasting relationships. Through these efforts, we aim to better understand each person’s perspective, support their goals and promote respect and dignity for all.
Our Focus
Accessibility
For many, physical barriers are the final obstacle to full participation. When buildings, programs and environments are made accessible, people with disabilities can thrive in spaces and experiences that were once out of reach. Removing these barriers opens the door to opportunity, connection and independence.
Relationships
The most lasting impact of our programs is found in the relationships they build. When people with and without disabilities connect through shared experiences, true community begins to take shape. These friendships foster mutual respect, break down barriers and help create a culture where everyone is valued for who they are.
Visibility
When people with disabilities are active and visible in their communities, outdated stereotypes begin to fade. By shifting the focus from perceived limitations to individual strengths, we help create a world where inclusion and opportunity are based on ability, not assumptions.
Inclusion
People with disabilities are often met with assumptions about what they can’t do — in sports, hobbies, careers and more. We believe in creating environments that challenge those assumptions and encourage personal growth. True inclusion means ensuring everyone has the chance to pursue their passions, make their own choices and live life on their terms.
by the numbers
$1,053,958
Raised for The Ability Experience in 2024 by Undergraduate Chapters
5,500+
Shared experiences with people with disabilities, annually
314
Total partner organizations
79
Ability Camp projects completed in 2025
3,324
Pi Alphas (as of March 2025)
63
Circle of Giving Grants totaling $150,000+
96
chapters with local volunteer relationships
Your Giving Matters
Your gift creates life-changing experiences for Pi Kappa Phi members and people living with disabilities. Hear directly from brothers, community partners and program participants as they share how The Ability Experience has made a lasting difference in their lives, and in the lives of those around them.
How We Fulfill This Commitment
Summer Events
Each summer, The Ability Experience offers meaningful opportunities for Pi Kappa Phi members to serve, lead and grow. Through programs like Journey of Hope, Gear Up Florida, Gear Up New York and Build America, members travel across the country cycling, building and connecting with local organizations along the way.
These experiences promote inclusion, raise awareness and create powerful moments of friendship with people living with disabilities, all while spreading a message of acceptance and understanding nationwide.
Local Impact
Each semester, members of Pi Kappa Phi lead events and conversations that promote awareness and understanding of the disability community on their campuses. These efforts help challenge stereotypes, amplify underrepresented voices and foster a more inclusive environment where everyone is valued and empowered.
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Local organizations that support people with disabilities often need help expanding and improving their spaces. Throughout the year, Pi Kappa Phi members lend their time and energy to build and restore accessible amenities for these partners.
Through The Ability Experience’s programs and grant funding, students make a lasting difference, enhancing facilities and strengthening communities across the country.
The Ability Experience Challenges
Push your limits and make a difference. Ability Experience Challenges are open events that combine personal achievement with powerful purpose. Whether you’re running a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon, your participation helps promote inclusion and support people with disabilities across the country.
Funds raised make it possible for athletes with disabilities to join the event alongside other participants, creating a shared experience that celebrates the abilities of all people. Join us, challenge yourself and help break down barriers one mile at a time.
