PARA ROWING FOUNDATION ACHIEVES GOLD SEAL OF TRANSPARENCY

GLOBAL, 29 April, 2025 – The Para Rowing Foundation (PRF), the pioneering non-profit organization that powers athletes with impairments worldwide to fulfil their true potential through rowing, has received the Gold Seal of Transparency 2025 by Candid/GuideStar, in recognition of the foundation’s commitment to openness, accountability, and impact. 

Visit our profile at Candid

The Gold Seal is awarded to non-profits that go above and beyond in sharing detailed information about their mission, goals, strategies, and achievements, helping donors and stakeholders make informed decisions. By achieving this milestone, the PRF reaffirms its dedication to inclusion, equity, and breaking barriers in the sport of rowing.

Steven Dowd, Executive Chair of the Para Rowing Foundation, commented: 

“Transparency is key to building trust with our community and supporters. This recognition underscores our ongoing efforts to make rowing truly accessible to all, ensuring that ability—not disability—defines participation in the sport.”

PRF continues to drive its mission forward, providing resources, coaching, and opportunities for para rowers world-wide. With this Gold Seal, the foundation strengthens its ability to attract new supporters, secure funding, and further its goal of making rowing a sport without barriers.

-End-

CONTACT:

Steven Dowd

Email: stevendowd@pararowingfoundation.org 

Mobile: +44 (0)740 141 1704

NOTE TO EDITORS: 

• Established in 2018 as a US-based non-profit organization supporting para rowers worldwide.

• Since PRF’s launch, it has supported more than 200 international athletes (including the Paris 2024 Paralympics).

• Athlete-focused and independent of any country or boathouse (work closely with many NGBs and World Rowing to achieve best outcomes for athletes).

• Serves all athletes with impairments from all nations, across all levels from entry to elite/Paralympic.

• PRF removes barriers and distractions to athlete’s focus by providing, facilitating or funding:

  • Holistic world-class training, e.g. 5 Intensive Training residentials in Portugal and the USA; 3,700 hours of coaching; collaborating with 58 coaches; directly engaging people from 26 countries on 6 continents.

  • Pro-sports psychology sessions for over 80 hours 15 athletes.

  • Cash grants.

  • Innovative equipment design and development, e.g. para seats and custom oars.

  • Athlete advocacy.

• Further information can be found via https://www.pararowingfoundation.org/