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Motivate Through Motion

We empower youth with different abilities to gain better physical and mental health through sports and exercise.

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OUR VISION

Motivate Through Motion is dedicated to empowering youth with different abilities to gain better physical and mental health through sports and exercise. Our unique programs are designed to instill confidence, resilience, and a sense of community, making a real difference in their lives.

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OUR WHY

Alabama faces a health crisis that deeply impacts its youngest residents. Our state consistently ranks among the top 10 nationally for both childhood obesity and childhood depression—two conditions that are often linked and devastating to long-term well-being. These challenges are even more severe for children with physical disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and developmental delays. For these children, rates of obesity and depression are not only higher—they are compounded by systemic barriers to physical activity and community inclusion.

 

While we know that regular exercise and movement can significantly reduce the risk of obesity and improve mental health outcomes, children with different abilities often face greater obstacles when it comes to participating in traditional sports and fitness programs. Lack of adaptive equipment, inaccessible facilities, social isolation, and limited inclusive programming are just a few of the barriers they face every day.

 

That’s where Motivate Through Motion steps in. We believe that every child—regardless of ability—deserves the opportunity to move, play, and thrive. Our programs are designed specifically to provide adaptive, inclusive movement experiences that are safe, engaging, and empowering. By opening the door to movement and exercise, we’re not just addressing physical health—we’re giving children tools for emotional resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging.

 

At Motivate Through Motion, we are building a future where all children have equal access to the benefits of movement. Together, we can combat the health disparities facing our most vulnerable youth and help them build stronger bodies, brighter spirits, and more hopeful futures.

RAISING AWARENESS

Motivate Through Motion raises awareness about the obstacles to sports and exercise for youth with differing abilities by meeting and collaborating with businesses, community leaders, and educators and also by forming strategic alliances with other nonprofits to help raise awareness of the health challenges facing kids with disabilities.

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PROMOTING INCLUSIVE SPORTS AND EXERCISE PROGRAMS

Motivate Through Motion promotes, sponsors, and develops sports and exercise programs through various means, including strategic alliances with schools, other non-profit organizations, and community partners.

INCREASING ACCESS TO ADAPTIVE SPORTS EQUIPMENT AND EXERCISE

Motivate Through Motion raises funds to purchase adaptive youth physical education and equipment for schools and communities in the Birmingham metro area. In coming years, Motivate Through Motion plans to extend its reach across the entire state of Alabama.

Special Ambassador

Mattie Graham was inspired to create the concept for Motivate Through Motion in 2025 while serving as a peer helper at her high school. Miss Graham serves as Honorary Board Member and Special Ambassador for Motivate Through Motion.

EVENTS

Mahjong for Motion

On Tap Sports Cafe

11967 Liberty Parkway

Vestavia Hills, AL 35242

2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

$45 donation per person

Join us for an exciting afternoon of Mahjong!  All levels.  Reserve your spot by emailing cagraham1970@gmail.comYour reservation will not be complete until your donation is made.

Feb 22, 2026

Taco Mama

Trussville, AL

5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Taco Mama Trussville will donate a portion of each purchase that night to Motivate Through Motion. 

Feb 23, 2026

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