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Disability Rights Auto Fund

Winner Announced!

NCIL, APRIL, NYLN, and Yoshiko Dart would like to thank the many young advocates who applied for this award.  We were extremely impressed with the large response and the amazing willingness of applicants to share with us their hopes for the future and their commitment to independent living for themselves and all of our brothers and sisters.  Several applicants noted that they were just glad that the funds would be going to a young person with a disability, to help them achieve their goals.  We received almost 80 applications and competition was very tight.  Please join us in congratulating Alex Jackson, a 21 year old journalism student from Charleston, South Carolina.  His essay is included below, and we found an excellent video of Alex at his job at the College of Charleston radio station. 

Text-only transcript!

Driving would be an excellent opportunity to increase my independence allowing me to continue my education and join the work force. My challenge of living with a spinal cord injury started at the age of 9 months when I was in a vicious head-on collision with a drunken driver. I was paralyzed from the chest down. Miraculously, my spinal cord wasn’t completely severed enabling me to use my right arm and hand. Many doctors believed that I wouldn’t be able to do anything for myself, but I drove my first power wheelchair at 4 years old.  I learned to feed myself, write, and type on a computer all with my right arm.

During my early teen years, I underwent numerous surgical operations to manage scoliosis, pressure sores, and bladder infections. Despite missing many school days, I graduated high school with my class. I wanted to return to a normal, teenage life. Many of my friends were learning how to drive and I wanted that opportunity, also. I kept a positive attitude because of the support of family and friends. My pastor and many church members visited and prayed for me. I was evaluated at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia where I drove a van with a joystick system. Once I turned 18, I was enrolled in South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation. In May of 2008, Voc Rehab approved my driving training and vehicle modifications.

I’m a senior at the College of Charleston majoring in Media Studies Communication. This summer, I’m an intern with the Office of Public Relations at the Medical University of South Carolina. Gaining work experience is crucial when graduating from college and beginning my career in journalism. I participate in extracurricular activities at school and in the community. In order for me to attend these events, my parents have to drive me in our minivan with a ramp. My family bought the van a few years ago hoping that I would be driving sooner. Public transportation is becoming more accessible, but it limits the ability to travel at a moment’s notice.

During my free time, I volunteer at the Medical University of South Carolina. Some of my most enjoyable moments are when I can talk with patients who were recently diagnosed with spinal cord injuries. I share my experiences with them and their families. I reassure them life is still worthwhile when living with a spinal cord injury. With an adapted vehicle, I can travel to different places to provide inspiration to people living with disabilities. My motivations to complete my education, have a successful career, and continue to encourage others with disabilities will make me a successful citizen in my community.

Thank you to the many talented young advocates that applied!  We join together in wishing you all of the very best: independence, brotherhood, and joy.  Live the dream and let us LEAD ON!

Background: The National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), The Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL), and The National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN), in collaboration with Yoshiko Dart, present The Disability Rights Auto Fund.

In the summer of 2005, Mr. Ichita showed his artworks in Matsumoto, Japan in honor of Justin; and raised money so that a hand controlled car would help a person with a disability go to work.  He had done that earlier with a donation from Justin and Yoshiko (who were on a shoe-string budget) in 1969.  He bought a brand new car with special hand controls; and began his career as a traditional family seal hand painting artist (Mon sho).  Shortly after he became successful, he married to Hiroe, who is a person with a disability.  They are happily married to this day.  He climbed Mt. Fuji all the way to the top of its paved portion of the road.  Earlier, during his Tupperware days in 1965, Justin had tried a climb, but his right wrist got broken.  He was sorry that he had to quit.  After his success many years later, Mr. Ichita wrote to Justin saying, "We did it together!"  He was one of Justin's most favorite friends. 

One young person from a rural area (preferred) was selected to receive about $4,500 in order to buy or modify a car that will make independence and employment possible. A short (one page) essay on how an accessible car will increase independence was required.