A Message from Alex:
Momentum with Purpose
A Message from Alex: Momentum with Purpose
by Alex A. Pilkington, CEO
September 1, 2026
In our first newsletter, I shared that IM ABLE is ultimately about creating opportunities—opportunities for people with disabilities and veterans to become active, build confidence, discover community, and redefine what they believe is possible.
Since then, the momentum surrounding our mission has continued to grow.
This summer, our leadership team completed our annual EOS planning meeting. This was more than a discussion about goals and priorities. It was an opportunity to look honestly at where we are, where we want to go, and what we must do to serve more people while strengthening IM ABLE for the future.
We are building on that direction with talented new team members. Kourtney Boughey, Community Engagement & Volunteer Director, and Kim Ryan, Adaptive Fitness Program Manager, have joined the IM ABLE team in two much-needed, full-time roles that have long been part of the organization’s strategic plan. Together, they bring fresh perspectives, valuable experience, and a shared commitment to advancing our mission. Their arrival expands our capacity and strengthens our ability to turn plans into meaningful action.
We are also grateful for the growing support of community partners such as Riverfront Credit Union, Schaylor Brewing Company, and Liberty Cares. Partnerships like these provide more than financial or organizational support. They demonstrate that local businesses and community leaders believe people of all abilities deserve opportunities to participate, belong, and thrive.
That spirit of community was also evident when IM ABLE was invited to attend Veterans Appreciation Night at the Philadelphia Union stadium. It was an exciting opportunity to recognize those who have served, raise awareness of our work with veterans with disabilities, and connect our mission with a broader community.
Some of our most encouraging progress is happening through relationships that directly support our participants. Our partnership with Alvernia University continues to grow as occupational therapy and physical therapy students volunteer with our IM FIT classes. These students gain valuable hands-on experience while our participants benefit from additional encouragement, engagement, and support. It is a powerful example of a partnership in which everyone learns, contributes, and grows.
We are also developing stronger relationships with local rehabilitation centers. These connections are important because they can help individuals discover adaptive fitness, recreation, and community as they move through recovery and into the next chapter of their lives. Our goal is for IM ABLE to become a trusted resource—not only after someone leaves rehabilitation, but as part of a more connected pathway toward long-term health, independence, and belonging.
Across our programs, attendance has remained steady. Every person who walks through our doors represents far more than a number. Each participant brings individual goals, challenges, and possibilities. Our responsibility is to ensure that every experience continues to offer value, encourages progress, and gives participants and their families a reason to return.
Our leadership is growing as well. We recently welcomed four new board members, along with a new Board President and Vice President. Their experience, relationships, and commitment will help guide IM ABLE as we strengthen our governance, expand our reach, and prepare for the opportunities ahead.
These developments may appear to be separate milestones, but they are all connected. Stronger planning helps us make better decisions. New staff increases our capacity. Engaged board leadership strengthens our direction and accountability. Community partners provide resources and visibility. University and rehabilitation partnerships create new pathways to participation.
Together, they allow us to change more lives.
There is still much work ahead, but I am energized by where IM ABLE is going. We are growing with intention, forming stronger partnerships, and building an organization capable of serving more people without losing sight of the personal connections that have always defined us.
Thank you to our participants, families, staff, board members, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partners. You are helping us build more than programs. You are helping us create a future in which people of all abilities have the opportunity to be active, connected, confident, and fully included.
Together, we are carrying the mission forward and continuing to redefine what is possible.
With gratitude,
Alex A. Pilkington, MS-MSL
CEO, IM ABLE Foundation
Army Veteran
