Global Wheelchair Mission

A Higher Purpose
Change the lives of people with disabilities worldwide. Councils are encouraged to donate at least $150 for a wheelchair. Through partnerships, councils can also purchase a large container of 110 to 280 wheelchairs for their own donation sites. A featured program, Global Wheelchair Mission counts for two credits toward the Columbian Award.

Overview
Since 2009, the Knights of Columbus has partnered with the American Wheelchair Mission and Canadian Wheelchair Foundation, which fall under the umbrella of the Global Wheelchair Mission. The goal of this initiative is to provide aid to those who lack the freedom of mobility in our communities and around the world. Whether councils are presenting wheelchairs to local veterans and neighbors in need or donating funds to benefit those abroad, mobility brings with it independence and dignity.

Obtained at deeply discounted prices, these wheelchairs change the lives of their recipients. Working with the Global Wheelchair Mission is a perfect opportunity to put your faith into action and involve the entire community in the rewarding charitable work done by your council.

Featured Program Requirements
Councils are required to purchase a large container of 110 to 280 wheelchairs for their own donation site, by raising funds through council, parish or community activities. Report activity using the Global Wheelchair Mission Report Form (#10071).

Action Steps
Resources

Action Steps

Contact the Knights of Columbus jurisdiction and coordinate with the state wheelchair chairman to determine how the council can assist with their Global Wheelchair Mission activities.
Set an annual goal for the council to contribute to Global Wheelchair Mission (i.e. specific dollar amount or specific number of wheelchairs).
Build public interest for the program! Promote the work of your council on behalf of the Global Wheelchair Mission in the parish and larger community through a variety of efforts:
- Prominently display promotional posters
- Bulletin announcements
- Pulpit announcements
- Posting on your council and parish website / social media pages
Schedule events to raise funds and promote progress toward your council goal. If you plan to conduct a Wheelchair Sunday, work with your pastor to obtain his permission and recommendations. Do not forget to encourage individual contributions!
Once your goal is met, submit the associated reporting forms to the Supreme Council Department of Fraternal Mission to gain credit for your program. Remember to retain copies for your council records.
- Immediately after your event is finished, complete the Global Wheelchair Mission Report Form (#10071) and Fraternal Programs Report Form (#10784).
- At the end of the fraternal year, complete your Columbian Award Application (#SP-7)

Resources

Global Wheelchair Mission Resources

All supplies and kits should be ordered by your council Grand Knight or Financial Secretary using the Supplies Online application available through Officers Online. Please note that Guide Sheets, Press Releases, etc. are available below as PDFs.