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.

******

Of course, John… we would be more than happy to join you in supporting Independence First. And thank you for all of the work you are doing for such fine organization. It’s people like you that make the world a better place!