Wheelchair van for self-reliance and independence

Dear Family and Friends,

We are initiating a Go Fund Me campaign to raise money to purchase a wheelchair van for Erik. Here is his story:


For over 10 years, I have been traveling to Cortland where I have been volunteering and attending a day program at the Murray Center. Although I have enjoyed my time there, I am getting bored with the activities offered.  I am also getting tired of the long trip. It takes my staff nearly an hour to drive me each way, and the winter roads can be very dangerous. The good news is there is now a NY State program called Self-Direction that will allow me to stay in my home community of Ithaca during the workweek. I will be able to decide where and when I will volunteer my time as well as make my own recreational choices. Very soon, I will be meeting with people in my circle of support to brainstorm ideas of what my day will look like. I am very excited for this change. Most people using Self-Direction services can be transported in the personal vehicle of the individual accompanying them. The problem is, I need a wheelchair van to get around. I will keep the van at my residence so it is always available for my use. This will allow me to access the Self-Direction services and will provide me with the greatest level of independence possible.

Thank you,

Erik

** The cost of a van with the needed wheelchair conversion is between $37,000 for a used one and $45,000 for a new one.  Any additional funds raised beyond the van purchase price will be put in an account for insurance and vehicle maintenance.