Our History
Challenge America is an outgrowth of Challenge Aspen, a nonprofit organization providing possibilities for people with disabilities since 1995. In 2005, Challenge Aspen began to create specifically designed programs for the increasing number of injured service men and women returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The resounding success of these therapeutic recreation programs resulted in the 2008 formation of a new division called C.A.M.O. (Challenge Aspen Military Opportunities) to focus on their continuation and further development.
In developing the C.A.M.O. programs, research revealed a lack of coordination of resources and information between programs for military across the country, making it difficult for warriors, especially those who have been wounded, and their families to locate the services needed for a successful transition from battlefield to home front. Recognizing the gap and the need for coordination on a national level, the idea of “challenging America” to find ways to connect military with the resources needed to establish a “new normal” life was born in 2008.
The Challenge America initiative was celebrated in Washington, DC, on June 8, 2009, by honorary founders Amy Grant and Vince Gill at a star-studded musical event to recognize and honor our warriors and their families.
Challenge America is officially incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, Federal Tax ID 27-0868701.
