The first-ever Adapt and Conquer Expo hosted by Prairieland Adaptive and Bradley University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program had an incredible 139 attendees from 70 communities across 3 states.  Twenty-one participating organizations were at the community resource fair. There were a total of 64 volunteers. Twelve adaptive activities (various sports, recreation, and fitness) were available to trial. The day was full of energy, courage, and connectivity. People of all ages and physical abilities joined and participated in wheelchair basketball, cycling, racing wheelchairs, disc golf, adaptive pickleball, para climbing, adaptive fitness, and equipment trials, including sled hockey, mono/bi-ski, kayaks, and running blades. 

For a full event summary, click HERE

Thank you to our incredible sponsors!

Event Photos

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Feedback from the event:

Participant Feedback:

“This was a phenomenal expo! We learned and experienced so much and we are so appreciative for all the wonderful volunteers. Our son rode one of the cycles that was outside… It fit him perfectly and it's his favorite color! He did 12 laps around the quad and did not want to stop so we want to encourage this as much as possible and as quickly as possible! Thank you again for such a wonderful event!”

“Thank you so much for the opportunity to be part of the first Prairieland Adaptive Sports Expo. It truly meant a lot to share my story and to see how it resonated with others, which I did not expect. The connections, conversations, and encouragement I received on that day reminded me why advocacy and visibility in adaptive sports are so important. I’ve already tried sled hockey and adaptive biking and fell in love with these activities I never had tried before the expo. I also plan to try adaptive skiing this winter. It truly is an honor to be part of such an inspiring community.”

Volunteer Feedback:

“I just wanted to say thank you so much for putting the fair together. I saw a lot of smiles today and think it's amazing to give people a chance to participate in activities they haven't been able to for a long time or maybe at all. I really appreciate what you are doing for folks and think it's remarkable that you have been able to put it together so that it is free for individuals to participate.”

“I am a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and a volunteer for Prairieland Adaptive. I am also a stroke survivor with hemiplegia. I helped with registration and took part in exhibits. I was very active before my stroke (running, hiking, bicycling) and have been working in my recovery to find ways to participate in things that bring the physical and emotional benefits that I had before. This has been a difficulty “DIY” project for sure. Our area has limited access to adaptation experts and opportunities to connect with other disabled folks who share my interests. Talking with vendors and participants at the expo opened doors for me and did my heart good! I came away with renewed excitement, some fresh goals, and practical information for making things happen. As a volunteer, it was a great opportunity to feel purposeful and part of something very important and very needed.”

Community Partner Feedback:

“This past weekend, we were proud to attend the first-ever Adapt & Conquer Expo, hosted by Prairieland Adaptive and Bradley University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program in Peoria, Illinois. Working alongside Cody Birely and his team, we had the chance to demonstrate how adaptive equipment can transform school gyms into inclusive spaces where every student can move, train, and thrive. From youth athletes to adults, we showed families and educators that fitness is possible for everyone — when the right tools are available. Events like the Adapt & Conquer Expo are proof: the future of adaptive fitness is bright. And Equip Products is proud to be at the forefront — helping schools, therapists, and communities nationwide take the first step.”  

- Equip Products