The Mobility Project began operation in late 1997 when co-founders Steve Oliver and Ray Terrill visited the country of El Salvador to begin assessing the needs of the population of disabled in that small Central American country. In mid-1998, they conducted the first of our four successful distributions of mobility aids to disabled people of that country. In late 1998, due to Hurricane Mitch, and again in early 1999, the work was spread to Nicaragua, where Oliver had lived while working in Community Development with disabled persons in 1996 and 1997.

Early in 1999 The Mobility Project partnered with other organizations in supplying and distributing over 900 wheelchairs throughout the country of Vietnam. Then in late 1999, The Mobility Project conducted two wheelchair distributions in Afghanistan and Pakistan, partnering with two organizations. In June of 1999 The Mobility Project took its first step toward meeting the needs of the disabled in Mexico. A distribution was conducted in the outlaying areas of Toluca, Mexico. This was the beginning of the work that has resulted in many distributions in Mexico. The Mobility Project has had many distributions in Mexico, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Costa Rica in the past several years. Annual sports camps in Mexico have flourished. Future distributions are being planned for Russia, Costa Rica and Vietnam at this time, and many groups go to Mexico during the summer to help with distributions.

           HOW WE OPERATE

The Mobility Project is a humanitarian organization so that we can enter countries that do not allow Christian influence. However, all full-time staff of The Mobility Project are Christians and raise their own support. 

Our philosophy is to share the  gospel as we believe Jesus did: we share with our actions, being the hands and feet of Jesus—not necessarily always with our words. 

As St. Francis of Assisi said, "Preach the gospel at all times. If necessary, use words." As Christians in a humanitarian organization, we have to use caution while working with governments that we partner with. Our desire is to bless the people we work with and to benefit their country. We must follow their rules. The ability to share the gospel with others will vary from country to country and distribution to distribution.

TO SCHEDULE A  PICKUP  or ARRANGE TO  DROP OFF AN ITEM

The kick-off was March 25th, and we collected 93 devices!!  Any walking assist device qualifies for pickup, so long as it is repairable. Call the church office (719 544-1892) and leave your name, address and phone number, or contact us by email at mobilityproject@pueblofirstchurch.com. Someone will contact you back and make an appointment for pickup. (Pueblo Chieftain - March 11, 2006)

This is an ongoing project - we are always anxious to gather equipment to be refurbished. If you wish, you may drop off the devices at the church, which is located at 228 W. Evans Ave (Jackson & Evans).  Please call before bringing anything to the church, as the office is not open every day of the week.