As we look back on 2024, it’s incredible to see the impact that your support has made possible through SAWs. This year was filled with remarkable achievements, growth, and heartwarming stories of restored independence, thanks to our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and supportive community. With your help, we reached major milestones, expanded our reach, and continued providing life-changing accessibility to those in need.

 Celebrating Our 4000th Ramp

One of the highlights of 2024 was our celebration of the 4000th ramp, a significant milestone in SAWs’ history. Reaching this number signifies thousands of lives touched, thousands of individuals freed from isolation, and thousands of families who no longer worry about accessibility for their loved ones. Each ramp tells a story of resilience, hope, and community, and the 4000th ramp was no exception. Built in May, it was a collaborative effort with Rehab Medical and volunteers who worked tirelessly to provide a 

safe passage to independence.

We recently marked this occasion by sending our supporters a special postcard featuring a sketch of the 4000th ramp. It serves as a reminder that every contribution — whether it’s time, funds, or encouragement — brings us closer to making a difference for another person who just needs a little help to regain their mobility freedom.

 Expanding Our Reach with New Partnerships and Grants

This year, SAWs continued to grow thanks to new partnerships and grants that allow us to reach more communities across Indiana and beyond. Notable contributions from foundations like the Community Foundation of White County and the Blue River Community Foundation made it possible to build ramps for individuals who would otherwise face months or even years of isolation due to accessibility challenges. 

We also received a generous gift from the Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation, funding the construction of 15-20 ramps across multiple counties. Each project is completed by a dedicated team of students from BY Construction Training, led by our outstanding Volunteer Project Manager, Jesse Linville. The students, mostly young adults, commit to building these ramps with skill and compassion, creating meaningful connections with our clients, and gaining hands-on experience in the field.

These partnerships highlight how working together as a community can bring lasting change, and we are grateful for the trust and support we’ve received from organizations that believe in our mission.

 Empowering a New Generation of Volunteers

Our volunteers power behind each ramp. This year, we witnessed an inspiring wave of new and returning volunteers, from students at Highlander Park completing their first ramp build to groups from businesses like OrthoIndy. With the help of experienced team members, these volunteers are gaining the skills they need to make a tangible difference.

One of our key goals in 2024 was to build a leadership pipeline within our volunteer ranks, ensuring the legacy of SAWs continues to grow. This effort to cultivate and support new leaders is crucial, as each new volunteer leader allows us to expand our impact even further.

 The Need for Support

Despite these accomplishments, the need for support remains urgent. There are still hundreds of individuals in Indiana who cannot safely leave their homes due to a lack of accessible options. Each ramp requires resources, skilled hands, and time to build — and with rising costs, our ability to serve everyone who needs a ramp is more challenging than ever.

As we enter the holiday season, we’re asking our community to consider supporting SAWs in whatever way they can. A donation of any size helps us cover the costs of materials, transportation, and volunteer training to continue delivering ramps to those who need them most. And because we’re committed to using your contributions wisely, you can trust that every dollar goes directly toward building ramps and changing lives.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we wrap up 2024, we’re energized and hopeful for what lies ahead. The progress we’ve made this year is a testament to the power of community and the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to access their own home. With your continued support, we aim to build even more ramps, reach underserved areas, and help every person who needs our assistance.

Thank you for being part of SAWs’ journey this year. Together, we’ve created paths to independence and lifted countless spirits. Here’s to even more milestones in 2025!

At Servants at Work (SAWs), we see how powerful it is when people come together to help. Recently, volunteers from Citizens Energy and kids from Second Presbyterian Vacation Bible Camp did something amazing. They worked together to build a new ramp for Leo in Far Eastside Indianapolis, IN. This project shows how teamwork can make a big difference in someone’s life.

Working Together for a Good Cause

Leo had an old, shaky ramp that made it hard and unsafe for him to go in and out of his home. This was not just a physical problem but also made him feel worried and stressed. Community Health Network referred Leo to SAWs for help.

Volunteers from Citizens Energy, led by Project Manager Chuck Rushmore, stepped up to help. They knew their work would make a big difference for Leo. In just two hours, they built a new ramp, making sure Leo could move safely and feel more independent.

Special Touch from Second Presbyterian Kids

The kids from Second Presbyterian Vacation Bible Camp added a special touch to the project. Before the ramp was built, these kids wrote messages of hope and love on the deck boards. Now, every time Leo uses his new ramp, he can see these messages and hopefully knows his community cares about him.

Celebrating Our Volunteers

The new ramp for Leo shows how much volunteers can do when they work together. The volunteers from Citizens Energy did an amazing job, and their hard work has made a big difference in Leo’s life. Project Manager Chuck Rushmore was very impressed and said, “You guys did a fantastic job. Two hours may be a new record for me!”

Looking Ahead

Leo’s new ramp is just one example of how community projects can spread kindness and support. As we celebrate this project, we also look forward to helping more people. Working with Citizens Energy, Second Presbyterian Vacation Bible Camp, and Community Health Network was wonderful. It shows what we can achieve when we work together.

At SAWs, we are committed to building more ramps and helping more people live independently. Each ramp is a step toward a community where everyone can live safely and with dignity.

Join Us

We invite you to join us in our mission. Whether you want to volunteer, your company wants to help, or your community group wants to get involved, there are many ways to help. Together, we can build ramps, create safe environments, and empower our neighbors.

For more information on how you can help, visit our website at SAWsRamps.org and follow us on social media @sawsramps on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Let’s work together to build a better, more accessible world for everyone.

Giving Back with SAWs: A Closer Look at Donor Recognition and Perks

At Servants at Work (SAWs), we’re driven by the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to move independently and safely. Our mission to build accessible paths for those in need is fueled by the generosity and compassion of donors like you. Through our Giving Program, we offer various contribution categories, each contributing to a tangible impact on the lives of individuals facing mobility challenges.

Inspiration for Giving

We envision a world where mobility is a right, not a privilege. Your donations enable us to break down barriers and provide individuals with the gift of independence and dignity. Every ramp we build is a testament to the transformative power of generosity.

Impact of Donating

Donating to SAWs goes beyond just building ramps; it’s about building pathways to opportunity and inclusion. Each contribution fosters social connection, emotional well-being, and a sense of belonging. Your support creates ripple effects that extend far beyond the physical infrastructure, touching the lives of our clients and their communities.

The SAWs Giving Program

Our Giving Program offers several contribution categories, each tailored to accommodate the diverse capacities of our donors:

Pathway Supporter: For donors contributing $100-$299 annually, enjoy an invitation to an exclusive virtual town hall with our Executive Director.

Access Advocate: Donors contributing $300 -$999 annually receive an invitation to the exclusive town hall and early access to Spring fundraiser tickets.

Mobility Ambassador: With contributions ranging from $1000 – $4999 annually, Mobility Ambassadors receive all Access Advocate benefits plus corporate logo recognition on our webpage and optional acknowledgment on a yard sign.

Visionary Builder: Donors contributing $5000 – $9999 annually receive all Mobility Ambassador benefits plus an optional social media mention and invitation to our Fall SAWs Summit event.

Founders Club: For those donating $10,000 or more annually, enjoy all Visionary Builder benefits plus an invitation to our Fall SAWs Summit event and optional special plaque recognition on a ramp.

Monthly sustainers, Legacy Society members, and Builders Club participants offer additional avenues of support for SAWs, complementing our donation levels and contributing to our mission in unique ways. Each of these groups receives special recognition for their commitment. Builders Club members enjoy the distinction of having an annotated logo featured prominently on our webpage, inclusion in our landing page slider, and the option for mention in our annual report. Monthly sustainers benefit from exclusive perks such as receiving an Exclusive Quarterly Newsletter and gaining early access to Spring fundraiser tickets, in addition to their respective tier level benefits.

Monthly Sustainers:
Our Monthly Sustainers demonstrate a commitment to our cause by giving regularly, ensuring sustained support for our programs. Their dedication allows us to plan and execute projects efficiently, knowing we have their ongoing support.

Legacy Society:
The SAWs Legacy Society honors individuals who include SAWs in their estate plans. Their forward-thinking generosity ensures the long-term sustainability of our organization, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.

Builders Club:
The Builders Club comprises groups that not only fund but also volunteer to build ramps. Their hands-on involvement embodies the spirit of community and collaboration, making a direct and tangible difference in the lives of our clients.

To our donors, we extend our deepest gratitude for your commitment and dedication. Your generosity goes above and beyond, and we are profoundly grateful for your ongoing support. Together, we are building a more inclusive and compassionate society, one ramp at a time. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for helping us create pathways to a brighter future for all.

ZUMC and SAWs embark on a journey from heart to home, building hope, one ramp at a time. 

In Zionsville, compassion radiates from Zionsville United Methodist Church (ZUMC), which has chosen Servants at Work (SAWs) as its Advent gift recipient for Christmas 2023. Fueled by the spirit of giving, this venture promises a significant impact, bringing change to the lives of those needing home accessibility. 

This partnership began in a meeting with ZUMC Pastor David Williamson and SAWs champion, Bob Richmond. ZUMC parishioners have a strong history of serving the community by building ramps with SAWS.  This is a big step in working together.  The goal of the Advent gift partnership is to further intertwine the church’s mission with SAWs’, multiplying the effectiveness of our service to our neighbors. 

ZUMC’s decision to focus on building ramps reflects more than a choice; it’s a commitment. The decision speaks volumes about the church’s dedication to making a real difference. Intending to raise funds to sponsor 20 ramps in 2024, (and volunteering to construct several) ZUMC’s successful Advent offering of $38,124 paves the way for impactful ramp construction in the coming year. 

Walt Maxson, SAWs Project Manager and ZUMC member, leads the ramp builds. The congregation aims to build 5-8 ramps in 2024, with 8-10 members participating in each build. The current timeline for ramp construction is in the planning phase and will be announced to email subscribers who sign up at the link below.  

Register and sign up here to stay informed of updates on this collaboration.  

By Evan Drake, Mobility Expert and Founder of RestoreMobility.com

Ever feel like you’re a race car driver trapped in the world of pedestrians? Mobility scooters can be your ticket to freedom.

Picture this: zipping through aisles at the grocery store, breezing past walkers on the sidewalk. It feels exhilarating, right?

But hold up… Are mobility scooters all they’re cracked up to be?

We’ll explore that and more in this deep dive into their pros and cons. We’ll look under the hood at key features – things like adjustable steering wheels for comfort and safety options for control. Then we’ll put the pedal to the metal, with benefits such as increased independence and maneuverability.

But remember, every ride has its bumps – so we won’t shy away from drawbacks either. Limited battery life, anyone? Or transportation challenges? Buckle up! Hold on tight – it’s going to be quite a journey!

Understanding Mobility Scooters and Their Role

Mobility scooters have a critical role in the lives of many individuals with limited mobility. They give freedom, independence, and an enhanced quality of life to those who might otherwise be confined.

The Growing Demand for Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooter usage has been increasing over recent years due to growing awareness about accessibility issues and an aging population’s needs. Research done by the National Institute on Aging shows that currently, 2.7 million US citizens utilize mobility scooters.

This trend isn’t just limited to America either; the global market value for mobility scooters is projected to reach $2.13 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2018 to 2025. These numbers indicate not only the vital role mobility scooters play in people’s lives but also their growing acceptance worldwide.

Key Features of Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters are equipped with features that prioritize comfort and customization, enhancing the overall user experience. For instance, adjustable steering wheels and larger seats not only cater to a range of body types but also make sure rides are as comfortable as possible.

Safety Features in Mobility Scooters

Safety is paramount when it comes to mobility devices like scooters. To this end, manufacturers have incorporated various safety features into their designs.

One such feature is joystick control. Joystick controls offer precise maneuverability for users by allowing them to control direction and speed easily. This intuitive control system lets users navigate tight corners or crowded spaces without worry.

Besides joystick controls, reclining options add another layer of safety while promoting comfort at the same time. By letting you adjust your seat position based on your personal needs or preferences, these options can help prevent back pain or discomfort during extended use. You can find some incredible options at RestoreMobility.com because they attach extra importance to products with higher and better safety features.

Finding Your Perfect Match: Customizable Steering Wheels and Larger Seats

Adjustable steering wheels and larger seats? Yes, please. These features mean you can tweak your ride to fit like a glove. That’s right; these scooters are all about making life more comfortable.

Advantages of Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters offer a lifeline to those who need help getting around, transforming every day into an accessible adventure. But what makes them so advantageous?

Increased Independence with Mobility Scooters

First off, mobility scooters give users the freedom they crave. They let people keep up with their daily activities without relying on others.

No more missing out on social events or struggling through errands – mobility scooters provide that independence. Plus, this newfound autonomy isn’t just practical; it’s also great for mental health, fostering self-confidence and happiness in users.

Maneuverability of Mobility Scooters

Apart from giving you back your freedom, these little powerhouses are quite nimble too. Especially when we’re talking about 3-wheel models.

Their compact design and smaller turning radius make navigating tight spaces a breeze. Whether indoors or outdoors, these agile machines can handle corners like professional race car drivers.

Specialized Ramps for Mobility Scooters:

Mobility scooters, with their distinct size and weight, demand specialized infrastructure. Not every ramp can handle these specifications. This is where SAWs Ramps shines. We understand the unique requirements of mobility scooter users. Our ramps are engineered with precision, ensuring not only accessibility but also safety and durability. With SAWs Ramps, scooter users can navigate with confidence, knowing they’re supported by a design tailored just for them.

Drawbacks of Mobility Scooters

As with any product, mobility scooters have their own set of drawbacks. Despite offering independence and maneuverability, these machines are not without a few limitations.

Limited Battery Life

A common issue faced by users is the limited battery life of mobility scooters. On average, most models provide between 15 and 20 miles per charge, depending on various factors like weight, load and terrain. Consumer Reports mentions that understanding your daily mileage needs can help you choose a model with adequate battery capacity.

The fact remains, though; there will be days when your scooter’s juice runs out quicker than anticipated. For instance, colder weather conditions can significantly reduce the range of batteries in general – including those in mobility scooters.

Transportation Challenges

Moving onto another concern: transportation challenges Due to their bulky design and considerable weight (often exceeding 100 pounds), transporting them may require extra planning or even additional equipment, such as ramps or vehicle lifts. Mobility Scooter Direct suggests that lightweight folding models might offer an easier solution for frequent travelers, but this isn’t always feasible for everyone due to differing user requirements.

Beyond personal vehicles, using public transport systems also presents its share of obstacles because accessibility varies widely across different regions and services. “Can I bring my scooter onboard?”, becomes a question often asked yet seldom answered definitively.

Cost Considerations

Last but not least, cost is a significant factor to consider. Prices for mobility scooters can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars based on their features and specifications. Plus, ongoing costs such as battery replacements and maintenance work also add up over time. AARP’s guide provides useful insights into the different costs involved in owning a mobility scooter.

Many health insurance plans do not cover the purchase price of a mobility scooter, thus making it an out-of-pocket expense for many.

FAQs about Pros and Cons of Mobility Scooters

What are the disadvantages of mobility scooters?

Mobility scooters can have limited battery life, be hard to transport due to their size and weight, and might not handle rough terrain well.

Are mobility scooters a good idea?

Absolutely. Mobility scooters enhance independence for people with reduced mobility by helping them maneuver both indoors and outdoors more easily.

What is the average life of a mobility scooter?

The lifespan of a typical mobility scooter ranges from 5-10 years, depending on usage, maintenance, model quality, and battery health.

How often will Medicare pay for a mobility scooter?

If you qualify medically, Medicare Part B may cover up to 80% of the cost every five years for durable medical equipment like mobility scooters.

Conclusion

Zooming around on mobility scooters can be a game changer. They give you the independence to maneuver both indoors and outdoors, helping maintain social connections.

You’ve got comfort with adjustable steering wheels and larger seats. And let’s not forget about safety options like joystick controls. But don’t overlook potential bumps in your ride, such as limited battery life or transportation challenges.

Weighing up these pros and cons of mobility scooters is crucial before hitting that gas pedal! If you’re ready to embrace an independent lifestyle while staying mindful of the drawbacks, then buckle up. It’s going to be quite a ride!

Every once in a while, a simple structure can make an extraordinary impact. In the summer of 2018, a simple wooden ramp came into existence. Its purpose? To provide mobility and independence to those who needed it most. Little did it know that its journey would take it through four addresses over the next five years, each with its own unique story. Behind this tale is the dedication of Project Manager and Area Coordinator, John Hunter, whose unwavering commitment made it all possible.

Jerry in Fountain County: The First Home

This sturdy ramp was born on June 11, 2018, and its first destination was Jerry’s home in Fountain County. Jerry, a kind-hearted soul, had been living with mobility challenges, and the ramp was a godsend. It allowed him to move freely and regain some of the independence he cherished. Tragically, Jerry passed away in 2019, leaving behind fond memories and the ramp that had made his life better.

Joan in Benton County: A Second Chance

After Jerry’s passing, the ramp found a new purpose when it was relocated to Joan’s home in Benton County. Joan, too, had faced mobility issues and was thrilled to receive the ramp. It served her well for over a year, but fate had another twist in store.

A Legacy of Giving: Repurposed for the Community

In 2020, Joan passed away, leaving a loving family who wanted to honor her legacy of giving. They decided to repurpose the ramp to benefit someone else in the community who needed it. This act of kindness not only celebrated Joan’s memory but also continued the ramp’s journey of bringing assistance and support to those who needed it most.

Debra in Benton County: A Second Homecoming

The ramp was then relocated to Debra’s home in Benton County, once again making a difference in someone’s life. Debra, like the others before her, found newfound freedom and accessibility thanks to the ramp. It became a symbol of hope, proving that even in challenging times, communities can come together to help one another.

Wendy in Carroll County: The Latest Chapter (2022-Present)

The ramp’s journey continued as it found its current home with Wendy in Carroll County. Wendy, who faced her own set of challenges, welcomed the ramp with open arms. With each passing year, this simple wooden structure continues to be a source of empowerment, symbolizing the strength of individuals and the support of a caring community.

John Hunter: The Driving Force Behind the Journey

None of this would have been possible without the dedication of John Hunter, the Project Manager and Area Coordinator who facilitated the construction and removal of the ramp at each location. His commitment to ensuring that the ramp found its way to those who needed it most is a testament to the spirit of volunteerism and community support that makes projects like these possible.

In its five-year journey through four different homes, this unassuming wheelchair ramp has touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of compassion, resilience, and the power of lending a helping hand. It reminds us that even in times of change and loss, the spirit of generosity and community prevails, making the world a better place, one ramp at a time.

When it comes to accessibility, a critical factor to consider is the slope of a wheelchair ramp. At Servants at Work (SAWs), we are dedicated to building ramps that provide safe and easy access for individuals with mobility challenges. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of the proper ramp slope and how SAWs ramps are designed to make a difference.

The Right Slope for a Wheelchair Ramp

The slope, or incline, of a wheelchair ramp plays a pivotal role in ensuring safe and efficient access. Ramps that are too steep can be challenging to navigate for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or those with limited mobility. So, what’s the proper slope for a wheelchair ramp?

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, the recommended maximum slope for a wheelchair ramp is 1:12, which means that for every inch of vertical rise, there should be at least 12 inches of ramp length. This slope provides a gentle incline that allows for easy and safe ascent and descent.

Why 1:12?

The 1:12 slope is based on extensive research and is considered ideal for several reasons:

1. Safety: A gentler slope is safer for individuals using wheelchairs or mobility aids, as it reduces the risk of tipping over backward when ascending and provides better control when descending.

2. Ease of Use: A 1:12 slope is comfortable for users, ensuring a smooth and effortless transition between different levels or surfaces.

3. Compliance: Following ADA guidelines ensures compliance with accessibility regulations, reducing liability and ensuring that your ramp meets legal standards.

4. Universal Design: This slope also accommodates a wide range of mobility devices, making it versatile and user-friendly.

Calculating the Length of a Ramp:

To calculate the necessary length for your wheelchair ramp, you can use a simple formula:

Ramp Length = Vertical Rise ÷ Slope (1:12)

For example, if you have a vertical rise of 24 inches, you would need a ramp that is 24 feet long (24 ÷ 12 = 2).

Considerations:

While the ADA recommends a 1:12 slope, there are situations where slight deviations may be necessary due to space constraints. In such cases, it’s crucial to consult with accessibility experts to ensure the safety and usability of the ramp. Additionally, ramps should include handrails for added safety and accessibility.

Why SAWs Ramps Excel

At SAWs, we understand the significance of adhering to these guidelines. Our volunteers and carpenters meticulously design and build ramps that meet, and often exceed, ADA standards. Here’s why SAWs ramps excel:

1. Accessibility: Our ramps are carefully constructed to provide the proper slope, ensuring anyone can comfortably access their homes and community.

2. Safety: Safety is paramount. We use quality materials and craftsmanship to create sturdy ramps that offer stability and peace of mind.

3. Community Impact: SAWs ramps not only enhance individual lives but also foster a more inclusive and supportive community.

How You Can Get Involved

Now, here’s where you come in! If you’re passionate about making a difference in your community, consider volunteering with SAWs. We’re always in need of dedicated individuals who share our commitment to accessibility.

Volunteer with Us – Join our team of volunteers and help us build ramps that transform lives. Register here!

If you or someone you know requires a wheelchair ramp for better accessibility, don’t hesitate to reach out. SAWs is here to help.

Apply for a Ramp – If you or a loved one needs a ramp, submit an application today, and we’ll work together to provide the access you deserve. Apply here.

At Servants at Work, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest. With your support and involvement, we can continue to create a more accessible and inclusive world, one ramp at a time. Join us in this meaningful journey today!

Dear SAWs Nation,

I am thrilled to step into the role of Executive Director at Servants at Work (SAWs) and continue our mission of changing lives, one ramp at a time. As we embark on the second half of 2023, we have exciting changes and challenges ahead.

Let’s start with the good news! Together, we have built nearly 158 ramps throughout Indiana, restoring freedom to 158 households. This achievement would not have been possible without the exceptional project leadership and the incredible dedication of our volunteer crews. I am humbled and grateful for your contributions.

In addition, I am delighted to introduce Mr. Mike Page, our new Operations Manager. Mike brings valuable experience as a Project Manager for ramp builds in the Anderson area and North Manchester. Since joining us on July 1st, he has been actively involved in ramp build planning and coordination. Welcome, Mike!

However, we also face challenges. Our backlog of clients waiting for ramps continues to grow. With the aging population, an obesity rate of 40%, and difficulties in accessing adequate healthcare coverage, the demand for ramps has increased. We are determined to address this issue and explore ways to be more efficient and resourceful, particularly in managing the cost of lumber.

Now, we need your support more than ever. Please consider making a donation to support SAWs’ mission. Alternatively, we invite you to join us on a nearby ramp build. Bring your family and friends along, and together, let’s restore freedom to those in need.

I am excited about our future together and the impact we can create. With your help, we will secure funding, train new project leaders, attract volunteers, forge partnerships with community-minded corporations, and ultimately serve 400 clients by the end of 2023.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the SAWs mission. Let’s make a difference and change lives together, one ramp at a time.

With a grateful heart,

Tim Thurston
Executive Director
Servants at Work, Inc.

PS.  Make sure you signup here to get our Summer Newsletter coming out next week!

By Tim Balz

Freedom Chairs is a non-profit that focuses on providing mobility equipment to those who can’t obtain it through standard channels. Some of the most common scenarios in which Freedom Chairs can help are:

• • • An unexpected condition causes a rapid need for equipment and the insurance process has been started, but it will take a significant amount of time
    • Situations where people don’t have insurance
    • Equipment has been damaged and the timespan for repair is months
    • Short-term conditions such as surgeries

If you need a chair for these or other appropriate reasons, you can reach out via the contact form available on Freedom Chairs Website; www.freedomchairs.org and they will follow up to better understand your situation and determine how they may be able to help.

At Freedom Chairs, they are passionate about giving wheelchairs a second home and helping people in the process. With your help, they can refurbish gently used wheelchairs and provide them to individuals in need. However, they do have some requirements for donations to ensure that the wheelchairs will be able to have a second home.

Freedom Chairs can accept custom power wheelchairs (often called group 3 chairs) that are less than 5 years old and in working order, although good batteries are appreciated, but not required. They also accept generic power wheelchairs (often called group 1 or 2) that are a bit older if they are in good condition. They accept scooters of most ages in good condition and nice manual wheelchairs. Please note that they cannot accept wheelchairs that are damaged or in poor condition, as it can often be very difficult to obtain replacement parts other than wheels, motor brushes, hardware, or batteries without them costing more than the value of the chair.

If Freedom Chairs are unable to accept your wheelchair, there are other options available to you. Some metal recycling centers will accept wheelchairs for recycling. You can also consider posting your wheelchair for free on online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Some individuals in your community may have the space to store or repair chairs, or you might even find a local high school that will use the motors and frame for a robot platform!

We understand that parting with a wheelchair can be emotional, especially if it was used by a loved one. However, donating your chair to Freedom Chairs or exploring other options for donation or disposal can help make a significant difference in the life of someone in need or at a minimum, reduce the negative environmental impact of disposal if the chair is past its useful service life.