October 2004

Free Wheelchair Mission Gearing Up for Christmas Campaign 2004!

Dear Friend,

This year, over thirty thousand more people around the world have mobility through the generous support of our friends.  I wish you could all experience first-hand the joy of giving this life-changing gift to people who now have their very own wheelchairs!

All Things Are Possible

But there are thousands of others who are still waiting for their miracle of mobility. And we at Free Wheelchair Mission believe that all things are possible.

With that spirit in our hearts, we are launching our Christmas Campaign 2004, with the goal of providing 25,000 wheelchairs in this holiday season. This ambitious goal can only be accomplished as others catch our vision and purpose to help make it happen.

Fun, Fellowship, and Fundraising

Many wonderful people hosted very successful fundraising events this year, providing the wheelchairs that have already been delivered. Because of the generosity and involvement of faithful donors, staff, and volunteers, our annual fundraiser held in July raised $245,000. One couple held a cocktail reception fundraiser with forty-five of their friends, raising over $10,000.

Christmas Card Charity

We sometimes receive checks with notes that touch our hearts because the gifts have so greatly impacted the donors themselves. One recent gift came from a grandmother who sends donations to the charities of her five grandchildren’s choices, in lieu of sending Christmas cards to friends and family. She calls this program their “Annual Christmas Card Charity.” The proud grandmother sent a note saying that her grandson Casey had selected Free Wheelchair Mission because he is so amazed that lawn chairs and bicycle tires can be used to make wheelchairs.

We, too, are amazed that such simple products can be used to make wheelchairs that so dramatically alter the lives of handicapped individuals. This year we found a new wheelchair supplier who has made significant improvements in the design and quality of the wheelchairs. And the best part is that we can still deliver each chair for $41.17.

You Can Be a Part of the Joy!

We are so grateful for all of you who have devised ways to express your care for those less fortunate. I trust that the examples of how so many have used their talents and ideas to help others are an inspiration to many more. There are countless ways to get involved personally and to introduce friends, family, and business associates to Free Wheelchair Mission.

You can share in the joy of giving a gift that will never be forgotten—a lasting gift that will provide mobility, restore dignity, and give someone a chance for a better life.

Making a Difference Around the World!

We continue to receive reports from wheelchair recipients around the world that keep us fueled up and moving forward. One man from Peru used wooden blocks on his hands to scoot around…until he received a wheelchair that changed his life.

In Africa, a child, who had never been outside his home, received a wheelchair and suddenly became a part of the world outdoors.

What a privilege to be able to make such a meaningful difference in so many lives. Our thanks to all who have made it possible for us to fulfill our goals and mission to this point…and to those who are now making plans to get involved in making A Gift of Mobility. Together, we’re making a difference!

God Bless,
Don Schoendorfer

P.S.      We wish to express our appreciation to the Samueli Foundation for the recent $100,000 grant that includes funds for four containers of wheelchairs for Chile and India. The grant also provides funds to begin developing the infrastructure within these two countries that will make it possible for us to ship them thousands of wheelchairs in 2005.