Words from Linda Driessen; Executive Director

The wheelchair accessible van we recently purchased for the Kelly D's group home significantly impacts the lives of the individuals who are supported at the home.  The previous van at Kelly D's house could only transport one individual who utilizes a wheelchair at a time.  This limitation made group outings difficult to plan.  The new van can safely accommodate up to three individuals who use wheelchairs at the same time.

The new van is also important for our staff members who work at Kelly D's group home.  The new van has an electric lift system that safely transports individuals in and out of the vehicle.  There are no ramps that require people be pushed.  In the winter months when the ground can get slippery, or when it rains outside, there is less safety when pushing wheelchairs up or down an incline versus having an electric lift system.

It is expensive to purchase a van with additional modifications being installed to meet the needs of individuals we support.  Without grants, donations and other community advocacy, purchasing a van like this would be difficult for us to do.  Thank you to everyone who helped us get this vehicle, and for supporting our mission of providing personalized community life experiences for individuals who have developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury.

Linda Driessen
Executive Director