Breaking Down Barriers to the Start Line with HOKA®
We are thrilled to announce that Achilles International has been selected as HOKA’s new nonprofit partner. HOKA is inviting more people to the start line by showing them the transformative power of movement through the new FLY HUMAN FLY campaign, which resonates with Achilles International.
For Achilles athletes, crossing the finish line is really the start line to the rest of their lives.
“Our partnership with Achilles International is paramount, as it allows us to truly execute the HOKA brand purpose of bringing more people to the start line. Through our partnership with Achilles, we are able to break down barriers and provide access to the joys of movement, which is at the heart of what HOKA stands for. We are honored to bring this partnership to life with Achilles, and grateful for the opportunity they allow to help transform the lives of people through movement,” says Ashley Mayes, Director of Global Brand Communications, HOKA.
Over 1 billion people live with some form of disability and, according to the World Health Organization, that number is dramatically increasing due to rising chronic health conditions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four Americans lives with a disability, and nearly half of adults with disabilities get no aerobic physical activity, which can lead to other health issues. The pandemic has only exacerbated the issue.
The benefits of running should be accessible to all. Inclusivity has never been more vital or urgent.
“Achilles International is proud to be the global charity partner for HOKA’s FLY HUMAN FLY launch and social activation. Like HOKA, we were built to help others cross the finish line and we recognize the power of movement in making the world a better and brighter place for all,” says Emily Glasser, President and CEO of Achilles International. “Our mission is to break down the barriers to participation in sport so that people with disabilities can live life to the fullest and experience the joys of achievement. We create community, cultivate a sense of belonging and provide access to recreational running and adaptive cycling opportunities around the world.”
How HOKA Is Partnering with Achilles
As part of this partnership, HOKA is donating $50,000 to support Achilles International’s mission and will also:
support Achilles chapter events through local Field Experience Marketing Representatives as well as regional presence
donate shoes and apparel to Achilles chapters and athletes with disabilities in need of footwear
support Achilles at major events and endurance races
Achilles is thrilled to work with HOKA in shining a spotlight on our athletes and telling their stories. Learn more about the campaign in the press release here or Yahoo! Sports article here.
Photo Credits: Victor Mirontschuk
