Aiding the Athlete

Fran believed that sport has the power to transcend barriers, both those between people and those within oneself. No dream was too big for Fran, and he believed that there was no barrier that could not be overcome, including one so often faced by elite swimmers striving to achieve their goals: funding.

Like many elite athletes, Fran’s approach to training required the utmost dedication, which all but precluded him from working a traditional job. The Crippen family did everything they could to support Fran and his three sisters in their swimming careers, but innumerable others also helped in many different ways, and Fran truly was raised by the “village” that is the international swimming community.

As part of his effort to repay the swimming community that so generously supported him, Fran dedicated himself to being an ambassador of the sport and to being of service whenever the opportunity arose. In his thank-you letter to the family that hosted him the year before Olympic Trials in 2008, Fran explained his intention to return the favor of their generosity and hospitality by paying it forward to other athletes achieve their goals.

In that spirit, the Fran Crippen Elevation Foundation has established the Work the Dream Grants. This Grant is intended for men and women who are struggling to find sufficient financial support to help them pursue their dreams to the best of their abilities. The FCEF hopes to support athletes who embody Fran’s dedication to all aspects of their sport. Grants will take the form of monthly stipends between now and July 2012, in preparation for the 2012 Olympic Games.

In addition to financial need, applications will be reviewed based on a short essay explaining their current athletic aspirations and the ways in which they could benefit from a Work the Dream Grant. The 2011-2012 round of applicants are currently being reviewed.

Learn About the FCEF Programs:

• Athletic Protection Program
  Increase focus on safety in athletic competitions
• Aiding the Athlete Program
  Supporting the dreams of inspired athletes who share Fran’s passion and dreams.
• Humanitarian Exchange Program
  Providing learning opportunities to swimmers and coaches around the world.