January 21st, 2025
The American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) is proud to announce a donation of $1 million over the next five years to the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research (O&P Foundation). This contribution underscores AOPA’s unwavering commitment to advancing innovation, education, and research in the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) profession.
The donation will support the O&P Foundation’s mission to advance the art and science of orthotic and prosthetic rehabilitation by enhancing clinical practices through professional training awards, promoting educational opportunities through academic scholarships, strengthening the body of knowledge through research grants and fellowships, and inspiring excellence through recognition of scholarly achievements.
“AOPA’s mission has always been to strengthen the O&P profession,” said Rick Riley, AOPA President. “On behalf of our members, AOPA’s Board of Directors approved this substantial multi-year donation to demonstrate the association’s commitment to a long-term strategic partnership with the O&P Foundation. We encourage others to similarly demonstrate their trust and support by donating to the O&P Foundation. Together we can accelerate research, education and training that will benefit O&P professionals and their patients in the future.”
The O&P Foundation plays a pivotal role in advancing the field by funding research initiatives and educational scholarships as well as providing professional awards that empower practitioners to provide the highest standard of care.
“We are incredibly grateful for AOPA’s generous support,” said Chris Fairman, CPO, O&P Foundation Chair. “This investment will enable us to expand our efforts and reflects a shared vision of elevating clinical standards, expanding educational opportunities, and strengthening the body of knowledge through research initiatives that directly benefit the patients we serve.”
AOPA and the O&P Foundation look forward to continued collaboration and the transformative results that will emerge from this partnership.
About AOPA:
A trusted partner, advocating for and serving the orthotic and prosthetic community, the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) fosters relationships with decision makers, provides education, supports research, and advances equality to strengthen the orthotic and prosthetic profession and improve the lives of its patients. Since 1917, AOPA has been the largest trade association consisting of more than 2,000 patient care facilities and suppliers that together manufacture, distribute, design, fabricate, fit, and provide clinical care for patients using orthoses (orthopedic braces) and prostheses (artificial limbs). Each and every day, AOPA and its members strive for a world where orthotic and prosthetic care transforms lives. aopanet.org
