Community Spotlight on Nilan Johnson Lewis Legal Administrative Assistant, Marilyn Grossman and Mobility for Independence
Describe the organization; what is its mission?
Our mission is simple: “Mobility for Independence is committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities by helping provide a means for them to become more mobile.”
Mobility for Independence was founded in 1990 as the Leo Grossman Fund. The founder, Leo Grossman, my uncle, suffered from a rare genetic illness — Buerger’s Disease — that eventually required multiple amputations over numerous years leading to his immobility and confinement to a wheelchair. Unable to continue his previous vocation in teaching and coaching, Leo’s unbreakable spirit enabled him to continue providing goodwill and community service through motivational speaking. Not having any means of transportation, his friends and family organized a “Wheels for Leo” celebrity roast that raised the necessary money to purchase a specialty-equipped van. With the use of this van, Leo was able to travel throughout Minnesota providing inspiration to others in need. Touched by the generosity of his family and friends, Leo decided to dedicate the rest of his life to providing mobility to those in need by the creation of The Leo Grossman Fund. Leo was determined to ensure mobility to the disabled and it was fitting that he became determined to pass onto others the example of generosity that was bestowed upon him. He was insistent that the disabled be able to live independent lives and influence their communities in a positive way. During his life, he was proof that quality of life depends on what lays insides a person’s heart. Sadly, Leo passed away in 1992 but his dream continues on through the organization’s mission.
In 2000, our name was changed to Mobility for Independence in order for others to more easily identify with the organization’s purpose. Since 1990, we have helped approximately 60 individuals become more independent. As Mobility for Independence embarks on its 20th anniversary as a nonprofit in 2010, we have had the good fortune of providing our services to disabled children and adults and by granting over $630,000 in grants (wheelchairs, scooters and handicap accessible vehicles) to those individuals.
Mobility is critical to an individual’s self-esteem and self-reliance. The individuals we are able to help will go on to live more fulfilling personal and professional lives and have a crucial impact within their community.
The organization’s overall goal is to raise the necessary funds to help individuals acquire safe and reliable transportation and mobility, thus improving their quality of life. Increased mobility enables our recipients to have self-sufficiency and greater access to the “outside world” such as obtaining employment; pursuing educational opportunities; having access to medical facilities; attending social and religious activities; as well as an overall peace of mind that they are not entirely dependent on others for their mobility needs.
How are you involved with the organization?How long have you been involved?
I have been a member of the Board of Directors since 2003, but have been volunteering since the inception of the non-profit in 1990. I have helped organize numerous fundraisers, including silent auctions, dinner banquets and charity golf tournaments.
Why is the cause important to you?
Because Leo was a member of my family, the mission of Mobility for Independence is very personal to me. I have seen first-hand how Leo struggled with mobility, and how he was able to overcome many of those issues with his specialty-equipped van, as well as with the support of his family and friends. I can think of no better way to honor Leo’s memory than to help continue his vision through the work of Mobility for Independence.
What can the greater community do to support the organization?
The most significant need is financial – every dollar helps. Economic conditions have made this a very challenging time for everyone, especially for small nonprofits, such as ours, that provide invaluable services to the disabled community. Over the past 18 months, there has been a significant decrease in contributions to the charitable sector. But demand for our program services continues to grow as we receive requests for assistance on a daily basis. Support and investment in our organization is critical in helping us meet this need and provide mobility to the disabled. It is important for the community to come together to support Mobility for Independence in these difficult times in order that we may continue to fulfill our mission.
How you can help: Donate! Every $10, $25 or $100 donation can make a difference. Double your Donation! Does the company that you work for have a matching employee donation program? Most companies will match donations dollar-for-dollar. Spread the Word! Please forward this information on to your network of friends, family and colleagues and tell them about our organization. Check out our Facebook page as well! Participate! Join us as a volunteer or an attendee at our 20th Anniversary Banquet & Silent Auction and other special events such as wine tastings and golf tournaments.
Where can people go if they want more information about the organization or if they want to become involved?
We are currently looking for a volunteer to help us redesign our website. If you are interested or know of someone who might be, please let us know. If you would like more information on our organization or its mission, our website address is www.mobilityforindependence.org. You may also contact Executive Director Mariann Grossman at 612-825-1845 or mobility-mariann@comcast.net for more information regarding opportunities with our organization.
