KNOXVILLE, Tenn.  ­— In a continued effort to provide accessible recreational opportunities to people with physical disabilities, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) on Wednesday donated $75,000 to Catalyst Sports during an event on Trotter Bluff Trail at Douglas Dam in Sevierville. The funds will allow Catalyst to purchase additional adaptive equipment and to fund adventure programs throughout the Tennessee Valley.

“The natural resources of the Tennessee Valley should be accessible to everyone,” Rebecca Hayden, Natural Resources director for TVA, said. “By adapting our own trails and partnering with organizations like Catalyst, we’re able to better ensure that all people are included.”

Catalyst Sports is a nonprofit organization helping provide people with physical disabilities access to life-changing adventures within a supportive and inclusive community in 11 locations across the Southeast, including in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Asheville, North Carolina, and Bowling Green, Kentucky.

“This donation represents a significant boost to Catalyst's mission of increasing accessibility to this type of recreation,” said Eric Gray, Founder and Executive Director of Catalyst. “It will enable Catalyst to expand its outreach programs, invest in the necessary adaptive equipment, and develop new initiatives to ensure that individuals with disabilities in all regions of the Tennessee Valley can enjoy and participate in recreational activities, fostering a more inclusive and diverse community of enthusiasts.”

The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA was established 90 years ago to serve this region and the nation by developing innovative solutions to solve complex challenges. TVA’s unique mission focuses on energy, environmental stewardship, and economic development. With one of the largest, most diverse, and cleanest energy systems – including nuclear, hydro, solar, gas, and advanced technologies – TVA is a leader in our nation’s drive toward a clean energy future.