Accessible Racing is a Fairfield, NJ based nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking barriers and making dreams come true for people with disabilities who wish to experience operating a real racecar. The organization was founded by Brian Hanaford and Peter Ruprecht in 2008. Through VXP the Next Generation brings virtual, video gaming into the rehab setting. Using virtual reality, disabled drivers improve their motor skills in preparation for either real-life driving or their accessible racing experience.

Beaver Run Motorsports Complex located in Beaver, PA, features one of the country’s top three karting centers, a six acre vehicle testing/training area, road course, and a 12,000 square foot event center overlooking the north track. They provide instruction on every aspect of racing, and will be providing the instruction for course and team-building activities. Beaver Run will also oversee the licensing process for those interested in acquiring their stock car license.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Human Engineering Research Laboratory (HERL) works to continuously improve the mobility and function of people with disabilities through advanced engineering in clinical research and medical rehabilitation. HERL began with only the VA Merit review grant, one lab area, two graduate students, and one staff person. Now, more than 48 active clinical studies thrive in eight laboratories staffed by over 10 investigators and a team of engineers, machinists, clinicians, research specialist, and the best and brightest graduate students and medical interns in the rehabilitative field. With experts in bioengineering, exercise physiology, robotics, epidemiology, rehab counseling, and physical and occupational therapy, HERL is eager to find the solutions to problems that exist for veterans and all individuals who use wheelchairs and other forms of assistive technology.

HOPE Network is a Pittsburgh-based, nonprofit organization that provides competitive and recreational sports and fitness opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities. HOPE Network also provides educational programming focusing on preve ntion of traumatic injuries, called “It’s Your Choice.” HOPE Network is funded by grants and private donations.

Innovations in VirtualSim Rehab, LLC is a new company located in Phoenix, AZ with a mission to improve the overall patient care experience. Their goals include further development of existing technology and the creation of new innovative simulation and virtual reality platforms for rehabilitation. They are actively involved in research to support the effectiveness of these games and devices, such as VXP the next generation, as a useful therapy treatment to improve function and independence in daily life tasks. Cofounder and Pittsburgh native, Kimberly Briggs, and her partner, Wendy Kappenman have reported initial studies that show the significant impact of virtual reality/simulation activities and improvement in function and skill.