The IM ABLE Foundation, a Wyomissing-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, is proud to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards grant. This generous funding will bolster IM ABLE’s mission to create inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities in Berks County and surrounding areas.
The 2025 grant will specifically support the growth of IM ABLE’s Operation Lead from the Front (OLFTF) program, which serves veterans and adaptive athletes in the local community. Thanks to this funding, the program will expand its offerings in 2025, including new clinics for adaptive skiing and kayaking, as well as an exciting outdoor adventure race. These additions will provide even more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in adaptive sports and outdoor activities, fostering empowerment and community.
The True Inspiration Awards, established in 2015, honor the legacy of Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy, who was committed to generosity and service to others. These awards recognize nonprofits that address significant community needs and align with Chick-fil-A’s social responsibility priorities: Caring for People, Caring for Others through Food, Caring for Our Communities, and Caring for Our Planet.
IM ABLE Foundation was nominated for the award by local Chick-fil-A Owner-Operator Scott Keiser. Community members and Chick-fil-A customers voted for regional finalists through the Chick-fil-A App, and IM ABLE was chosen as one of the standout organizations for this year’s award.
“Countless individuals shared our posts asking for votes – not just once, but multiple times. Ultimately, it came down to the public’s vote – and they answered! While we would have been just as grateful for a standard grant from Chick-fil-A, this process was about so much more. It was about the public’s direct involvement, and that speaks volumes. It’s a powerful testament to the support of our mission and the incredible work that IM ABLE does” said Sherry Marcinkowski, Board Chair of the IM ABLE Foundation. “We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Scott Keiser for his nomination and to everyone who voted and rallied behind us – your support has made this incredible achievement possible.”
The IM ABLE Foundation formally accepted the grant during a special ceremony at the IM FIT program on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 6:45 PM. The event took place at the IM ABLE Main Gym located at 1007 Hill Ave, Bldg 17, Wyomissing, PA. The Chick-fil-A team presented the check during this momentous occasion, marking a new chapter of growth and opportunity for the foundation.
Alex A. Pilkington, CEO of IM ABLE Foundation, stated: “We are incredibly honored and grateful to be selected as a recipient of the 2025 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Award. This generous grant will have a profound impact on our ability to continue expanding the Operation Lead from the Front program, allowing us to provide even more adaptive sports and outdoor opportunities for veterans and individuals with disabilities. With this funding, we can reach more people, break down more barriers, and help our community discover the power of possibility. We’re excited for the new adventures and opportunities ahead, and deeply appreciate Chick-fil-A’s support in making this vision a reality.”
For more information, email Ashley Tomasko at ashley@imablefoundation.org or visit imablefoundation.org
For more information about IM ABLE Foundation’s services, sponsorship, or to make a donation, please contact Director of Development Brian Sutherland at Brian@imablefoundation.org or visit imablefoundation.org