One Step Ahead Foundation – Timeline
A living history of impact, advocacy, and athletic inspiration led by founder Amy Palmiero‑Winters.
2010 — The Beginning
Foundation Established
Amy Palmiero‑Winters creates the One Step Ahead Foundation to empower children and young adults with physical challenges through athletics, mentorship, and confidence‑building experiences.
2011 — Building Awareness & Community
September 2011 — Official Spokesperson Announced
Aviva Drescher is named the foundation’s spokesperson, helping amplify the mission and reach new families.
December 2011 — SoulCycle Fundraiser
A successful community cycling event raises funds to support kids with limb loss and mobility challenges.
2012 — Direct Support & Mission Expansion
February 2012 — Athletic Support for Youth
The foundation helps provide hybrid running legs for young athlete Jake Lillis, enabling participation in running, skiing, and triathlon activities.
August 2012 — Mission Published
The foundation formally shares its volunteer‑run model and commitment to building confidence through sports and positive experiences.
2013 — Recognition & Collaboration
March 2013 — Community Recognition
Amy is honored as a “Woman of Distinction,” highlighting her leadership and work with children through the foundation.
September 2013 — Prosthetic Collaboration
The foundation partners with A Step Ahead Prosthetics to help create a lifelike skin prosthesis, supporting recovery and confidence for a survivor of the Boston Marathon tragedy.
November 2013 — National Recognition
Amy is named one of the “20 Most Inspiring Runners in the U.S.,” bringing national attention to the foundation’s mission.
2014 — Fundraising, Media & Milestones
January 2014 — Run Now Relay Fundraiser
A multi‑state relay raises funds and awareness for the foundation and its programs.
January 2014 — Book Launch Event
The foundation celebrates spokesperson Aviva Drescher’s book launch, bringing supporters and families together.
February 2014 — Annual Ski Trip
Kids and families enjoy an adaptive skiing experience, emphasizing confidence and independence through sport.
April 2014 — National TV Feature
The foundation’s work is highlighted on Fox 5 News.
June–July 2014 — Spartan Death Race
Amy announces and completes the grueling Death Race, using the challenge to inspire others and spotlight the foundation’s mission.
2017 — Major Community Partnership
May 2017 — Yankees HOPE Week
The New York Yankees honor the foundation during HOPE Week, inviting Amy and children to Yankee Stadium for a special day of recognition, support, and celebration.
2018 — Fitness for a Cause
June 2018 — CrossFit CAMO Army / TEAMWORK Event
The foundation supports a nationwide fitness fundraiser promoting teamwork, resilience, and community impact.
2019 — National Impact & Global Achievement
February 2019 — DECA Journey Launched
A new awareness and fundraising initiative connects endurance athletes and communities across the country to support kids and young adults with mobility challenges.
April 2019 — Historic Ultramarathon Milestone
Amy becomes the first female amputee to complete the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert, bringing international attention to adaptive athletics and the foundation’s work.
2021 — World Record Recognition
August 2021 — Guinness World Record
Amy sets a world record for the fastest 100‑mile treadmill run, with major media highlighting her leadership of the One Step Ahead Foundation.
2024 — Global Brand Feature
December 2024 — Humans of HOKA
An international feature spotlights Amy’s journey, her athletic achievements, and how the foundation continues to give back to the next generation of adaptive athletes.
Ongoing — The Mission Continues
The One Step Ahead Foundation remains a volunteer‑run organization dedicated to:
Supporting children with limb loss and physical challenges
Creating access to adaptive sports and athletic opportunities
Building confidence, independence, and lifelong community connections
Every step forward is a step taken together.
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Founded in 2010 by world‑class ultrarunner Amy Palmiero‑Winters, the One Step Ahead Foundation empowers children through athletics, mentorship, and community support.