Play Without Limits - AMCSI: Supporting the Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita Community

In 2024, Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita Support, Inc. (AMCSI) proudly partnered with TRAILS Adaptive—the global adaptive program at University of Utah Health. At the 19th annual AMCSI Conference in Atlanta, GA, TRAILS team members and volunteers introduced adaptive sports to attendees of all ages. This initiative aimed to build comfort and awareness among individuals with physical disabilities in accessing adaptive sports and recreation.

Research shows individuals with physical disabilities are at greater risk for depression and isolation (Noh et al., 2016). Adaptive sports promote physical health, community engagement, and psychosocial well-being (Brown et al., 2020; Tow et al., 2020). The Atlanta program proved transformative—participants described “unforgettable moments” like wake surfing and adaptive mountain biking, and highlighted the kindness and collaboration within the community.

To build on that success, Play Without Limits will return for the 20th AMCSI Conference, to be held in Norfolk, VA. AMCSI seeks to partner with Virginia-based adaptive sports organizations, Beyond Boundaries and Sportable to provide access, education, and empowering experiences for individuals with AMC. Funding will support lodging, transportation, equipment rentals, and partnership fees.

Play Without Limits will give individuals with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita and their families the opportunity to explore adaptive sports in a safe, supportive setting. With your support, we aim to create lifelong memories and inspire continued engagement in inclusive recreational activities.

Other Sources of Funding

The AMCSI conference is funded through multiple sources: 70% from attendee registrations, 20% from the AMCSI store and silent auction, 7% from sponsorships, and 3% from vendor table fees and ads. Remaining conference costs are covered by AMCSI’s general fund.
Currently, AMCSI is actively seeking sponsorships for Play Without Limits. Without dedicated support from grants or sponsorships, we will not be able to offer this program in 2025.

Geographic Area Served

The 2025 AMCSI Conference will be held in Norfolk, VA, with outdoor activities located in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Attendees include individuals from across the U.S. and internationally. Play Without Limits will host events in local areas and provide access to adaptive sports equipment and information on-site.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer roles include:

General Volunteers: Assist with conference set-up, breakdown, and vendor support
Greeters & Door Checkers: Welcome attendees and check registration badges at breakout sessions
Play Without Limits Volunteers: Provide participant support during adaptive sports sessions (under TRAILS or Virginia leadership)
Media Support: Capture event photography/videography and manage social media (under AMCSI media team)
First Aid & Safety: Certified volunteers provide medical assistance and help enforce safety protocols

Recognition & Visibility

Partners will be recognized through:

Social media promotion
Printed materials
Conference slides
Verbal acknowledgments during the event
Optional speaking opportunity if desired by sponsorship representatives

Associated Event

Play Without Limits is part of the 20th Annual AMCSI Conference. The conference includes educational breakout sessions, peer support, and presentations by volunteer medical professionals—including surgeons, therapists, and other experts—who provide valuable information to individuals and families affected by AMC.

Impact Details

General Audience and Demographics Served:
AMCSI serves hundreds of individuals diagnosed with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC), a rare neuromuscular condition that affects approximately 1 in 3,000 live births. With over 500 different types identified, AMC presents in diverse ways. Many of the children and youth we serve use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, leg braces, and prosthetics.

Play Without Limits represents a unique and, for many, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—especially for those without access to adaptive sports programs in their local communities. AMCSI is deeply committed to inclusion and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, sex, or disability. Our programs serve individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

Anticipated Outputs and Outcomes:

Engage approximately 85 individuals with AMC and their families
Offer up to 10 adaptive sports sessions (e.g., wake surfing, climbing, mountain biking)
Partner with at least 4 adaptive sports organizations
Recruit and train approximately 35 volunteers

Measured Outcomes:

Increased knowledge and confidence through pre- and post-event surveys
65% growth in participation from 2024
Positive feedback regarding interest and engagement in adaptive sports
Establishment of a replicable model for future AMCSI adaptive programming

Long-Term Impact:

Play Without Limits supports community inclusion, confidence-building, and ongoing participation in adaptive recreational activities—directly contributing to the vitality and well-being of the AMC community.