The organization’s overall goal is to raise the necessary funds to help individuals in acquiring 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.  

Mobility for Independence provides matching grants (up to $10,000) to qualified recipients.  The need in Minnesota and the surrounding region clearly exceeds the funding available.  We have had over 120 requests for applications to the organization within the past two years.  To date, Mobility for Independence has in its files over 50 completed applications for assistance, which equates to approximately $500,000 in matching funds.  

Individuals who submit applications for assistance are evaluated based on the following seven criteria: 

Completion date of application

  Physical condition; long-term prognosis 

  Financial ability to support the equipment requested

  Financial status (income versus expenses)

  Level of independence that the equipment will allow the applicant to attain

  Status of matching funds

  Amount requested  

 Mobility for Independence’s “Mobility Committee” meets quarterly to rank the applicants based on the above criteria.  The organization then provides support with the funds available to the applicants based on their ranking. 

Most applicants are in need of a handicap accessible van.  These vans can cost between $15,000 and $45,000 to be outfitted appropriately depending on the specific needs of the individual.     

Mobility for Independence also directs families and individuals to additional resources in order for them to raise the additional monies necessary to purchase equipment.  We have a variety of avenues for families and individuals to explore within their communities.  Please call our organization to find out more about these opportunities.