Wheels for Independence

IndependenceFirst empowers those with disabilities. Let’s help empower them.

A letter from our friend, John:

As you know, 13 years ago I was diagnosed with Kennedy’s Disease, a rare, congenital muscle condition. I am fortunate in that it is very slow progressing and I consider it more of an nuisance than a disability. However, as I am physically able to do less and balance issues show up, the plight of people with more serious disabilities has come into focus.

Three years ago I accepted an invitation to join the volunteer board of IndependenceFirst, a non-profit 501c3 directed and controlled by persons with disabilities, serving the four county metropolitan Milwaukee area.  Our mission is to effectively facilitate empowerment of individuals with disabilities through: education, advocacy, independent living services, and coalition building.

Today as Treasurer of the organization I see first-hand the challenges nonprofits have in balancing their budget. Without the support of donors, many needs have to be deferred. As a result, this year we will be participating in GivingTuesday.  I invite you to join me in helping the agency raise money needed to buy a new accessible minivan. These funds are not available in our operating budget.

The current van has tens of thousands of miles on it and is in need of costly repairs.  A new van will be used on a daily basis to meet the transportation needs of the agency’s consumers (clients), guests, and staff.

IndependenceFirst uses its agency van to:

• Transport consumers to appointments, meetings, and community events
• Enable staff with disabilities to visit consumers at home and to attend work-related meetings and host peer support sessions around the region and state
• Support our youth programs by transporting wheelchairs and adaptive sports equipment to events and transport visitors/guests who require mobility-assisted transit

The agency hopes to raise $25,000 through this campaign, about half the amount needed to buy a new van.  The remaining funds have been requested through grant applications.

Giving Tuesday is held each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and is a 24-hour fundraising event that encourages philanthropy and celebrates generosity worldwide.  The date for this year’s event is November 28.

• You can send your pledge by e-mail to dfaustmann@independencefirst.org
• Pay by check and mail to:
  • Independence First
  • Attn: Fund Development
  • 540 South 1st Street
  • Milwaukee, WI  53204
• Make a gift online at: https://www.independencefirst.org/donate/donation-form

I invite you to join me is supporting this worthwhile cause. You don’t need to wait until the 28^th. Donate today so you don’t forget. I really appreciate your support. 

Your gift helps kids and adults with disabilities to develop the skills they need to live independently and contribute in society.