A friendship that redefined possibility.

Max Out Life was born from a friendship that has redefined possibility.

Amy Chavez met Max Poen when he was just 9 years old, working as his one-to-one aide in the classroom. Max has cerebral palsy, is non-verbal, and uses a wheelchair—but from the very beginning, he and Amy connected through shared joy, creativity, and a drive to explore the world on their own terms.

What began as a classroom bond grew into a more than 20-year partnership built on trust, adventure, and a belief that every experience can be adapted—and that nothing is off-limits.

Over the years, Amy and Max have pushed boundaries together—going swimming, roller skating, camping, and even starting a book club. They co-authored a book now available at the local bookstore and library, and they launched “Creatability Hour,” an inclusive library-based program filled with art, reading, and social connection.

Every step of the way, they’ve asked one simple question:

That spirit of curiosity, determination, and limitless possibility led to the founding of Max Out Life in 2024. Built on the belief that everyone deserves access to adventure, Max Out Life is a nonprofit dedicated to creating experiences that are inclusive, joyful, and bold.

Today, Max Out Life continues to create opportunities for adventure, connection, and belonging, but this journey began long ago with two friends who never stopped believing in what was possible.