About Strides 4 Gianluca

Strides 4 Gianluca is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness for cerebral palsy (CP), the most common lifelong motor disability. Each year, approximately 10,000 babies in the United States are born with CP, making education, advocacy, and support more important than ever.

Our organization was inspired by Gianluca Aconi, whose resilience and determination embody the spirit of our mission. Gianluca was born with right-sided hemiplegic cerebral palsy, and his journey inspired his father to combine two lifelong passions—running and hockey—to create meaningful opportunities to advocate for CP awareness alongside family, friends, and supporters.

Our Running Strides

Through marathons, half marathons, 5Ks, and other road races, our team proudly wears the Strides 4 Gianluca logo with every mile we complete. These events not only raise awareness for cerebral palsy but also help generate vital funding to support our mission. Gianluca has proudly participated in many of these races, either riding in a jogging stroller or crossing the finish line hand in hand with his father, symbolizing the strength and perseverance that inspire our organization.

Our Skating Strides

Known as our CP Heroes of Hockey initiative, our skating program brings the hockey community together through charity games featuring NHL alumni, fundraising events, and participation in charitable tournaments. These events help expand awareness of cerebral palsy while raising funds for organizations, hospitals, and research foundations dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with CP.

Making an Impact

While cerebral palsy awareness remains at the heart of everything we do, our mission extends beyond advocacy. We are committed to spreading kindness throughout our community, celebrating the courage of CP warriors, and creating opportunities that inspire inclusion and hope.

Donations to Strides 4 Gianluca directly support our awareness events, community outreach initiatives, scholarship fund, and charitable contributions to CP organizations, hospitals, and research efforts. Every donation helps us take another stride toward greater awareness, stronger communities, and a brighter future for individuals and families affected by cerebral palsy.

Together, every stride brings us closer to a world with greater understanding, inclusion, and support for the cerebral palsy community.