We have a simple solution to address the basic mobility needs of millions living with disabilities in the developing world: a cost-effective and durable wheelchair.
All three of our wheelchair models are designed to be resilient enough to withstand regular use in the rugged terrain more common in the developing world. Our wheelchair design and distribution model allows us to maximize our impact around the globe, lifting thousands off the ground and gifting them with not only mobility, but a renewed sense of dignity, hope, and independence.
Our Wheelchairs
Design Goals:
GEN_1 (now retired) is a multipurpose wheelchair designed for use in rugged terrain. It provides basic mobility to a broad range of recipients, and it is generally recommended for those who do not need adjustments to the wheelchair to aid postural support.
Global Roll Out: 2001
Sizes
One Size
Colors
White chair, black frame and wheels
Folding Capability
No
Maintenance
Designed to provide 3-5 years of service with normal use, providing it is appropriately maintained. Each recipient is supplied with a wrench, air pump, patch kit and recipient manual for home maintenance, plus contact information for local resources should service, maintenance, further training or information be required.
Assembly Time
Wheelchairs arrive unassembled; assembly takes about 15 minutes.
Footrest Adjustability
Yes – single solid footrest for both feet can be adjusted to accommodate four different leg lengths and may be pivoted forward or backward as needed at each length.
Wheels / Tires
Rear tires are 24″ with medium tread and an inflatable inner tube, with chrome-steel rims and black-painted steel push-rims attached in four places. Front wheels are large rubber castors for increased wheelbase and stability.
Harness
Optional over-the-shoulder 5-point harness helps provide secure seating for smaller recipients and recipients requiring additional postural support.
Seating
Seat and backrest are a single piece of injection-molded polypropylene resin attached to a custom steel frame. The seat and backrest are UV-resistant to diminish damage from sunlight.
Propulsion
Push-rims on tires for self-propulsion or attendant propulsion through direct contact with frame.
Brakes
Independent steel-locking system on each rear wheel
Net Weight
17.4 kg / 38.4 lbs
Design Goals:
GEN_2 was designed with adjustability in mind, allowing for a more customized fit to address each individual recipient’s personal needs. Recommended for smaller recipients, those who require additional adjustment to the wheelchair and/or those who need to commute longer distances.
Global Roll Out: 2009
Sizes
Four Sizes (S, M, L, XL)
Colors
Light blue frame, black wheels
Folding Capability
No
Maintenance
Designed to provide 3-5 years of service with normal use, providing it is appropriately maintained. Each recipient is supplied with a wrench, air pump, patch kit and recipient manual for home maintenance, plus contact information for local resources should service, maintenance, further training or information be required.
Assembly Time
Wheelchairs arrive unassembled; assembly takes about 20 minutes.
Footrest Adjustability
Yes – two independent footrests can each be adjusted to accommodate any combination of ten different leg lengths and may be angled as needed at each length. Footrests can also swing away 180˚ to aid transfers and include an optional calf support strap.
Wheels / Tires
Rear tires are 26″ with medium tread and an inflatable inner tube, with chrome-steel rims and black-painted steel push-rims attached in four places. Front wheels are large rubber castors for increased wheelbase and stability.
Harness
Optional seat belt with quick release to provide secure seating for recipients who require additional postural support.
Seating
Seat is attached to a custom steel frame by polypropylene webbing straps secured with parachute cord. The adjustable backrest (four height positions) is composed of EVA foam padding inside a water-resistant, fire-retardant nylon cover.
Propulsion
Push-rims on tires for self-propulsion or attendant propulsion using included handlebars.
Brakes
Independent steel-locking system on each rear wheel
Net Weight
16.5 kg / 36.4 lbs
Design Goals:
GEN_3 mirrors the customizability of GEN_2 but has the added benefit of being foldable to address needs we’ve seen in the field for better home storage and more convenient transportability.
Global Roll Out: 2013
Sizes
Four Sizes (S, M, L, XL)
Colors
Bright blue frame, black wheels
Folding Capability
Yes
Maintenance
Designed to provide 3-5 years of service with normal use, providing it is appropriately maintained. Each recipient is supplied with a wrench, air pump, patch kit and recipient manual for home maintenance, plus contact information for local resources should service, maintenance, further training or information be required.
Assembly Time
Wheelchairs arrive mostly assembled; assembly takes about 10 minutes
Footrest Adjustability
Yes – two independent footrests can each be adjusted to accommodate any combination of ten different leg lengths and may be angled as needed at each length. Footrests can also swing away 180˚ to aid transfers and include an optional calf support strap.
Wheels / Tires
Rear tires are 26″ with medium tread and an inflatable inner tube, with chrome-steel rims and black-painted steel push-rims attached in four places. Front wheels are large rubber castors for increased wheelbase and stability.
Harness
Optional seatbelt with quick release to provide secure seating for recipients who require additional postural support.
Seating
Seat is attached to a custom steel frame by polypropylene webbing straps secured with parachute cord. The adjustable backrest (four height positions) is composed of EVA foam padding inside a water-resistant, fire-retardant nylon cover.
Propulsion
Push-rims on tires for self-propulsion or attendant propulsion using included handlebars.
Brakes
Independent steel-locking system on each rear wheel
Net Weight
20.4 kg / 45.6 lbs
