Access Builds
The Ability1st Access to Independence (ATI) program is made up of three components vital to our mission. The most well-known component of our ATI program are the access builds. We partner with local civic, professional and church groups to construct wheelchair ramps and half-steps to enable members of our community with disabilities to get in and out of their homes safely. Partnering with volunteers enables us to stretch available funds and provide more service in our community. Last fiscal year, we utilized more than 10,000 volunteer hours and completed more than 150 access builds.
Equipment Loans
The second component to the ATI program is loaning durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, transfer benches and shower chairs. These items are available to our neighbors who have very low income and do not have health insurance coverage for this equipment. Medical equipment provides increased mobility and safety and is therefore essential to maintaining independence.
Disposable Medical Supplies
The final component to the ATI program is providing disposable medical supplies such as disposable undergarments, bed pads, wipes, and sterile gloves. These items are necessary for good sanitation, and to prevent infection but can be prohibitively expensive to many in our community.
Access to Independence Success
The success of the ATI program is due in no small part to the generosity of our community. We are grateful for the many donations of volunteer hours, medical equipment, disposables, liquid food, and monetary investments.
