About Us
History
In January 2007, a single working mother of two began a fundraising campaign to help her purchase a wheelchair accessible van for her son, Geordi.
Geordi's transportation needs were unique – with severe cerebral palsy, scoliosis, tight muscles and dislocated hips, he was unable to sit in an upright position. Geordi's five foot long wheelchair needed to be reclined and tilted at all times to accommodate his rigid body.
The campaign was highly successful – due in large part to the overwhelming support of the Eastern Ontario community, as well as to the help received from four funding agencies.
Geordi's mom's desire to 'pay it forward' has led to the creation of this foundation. She is committed to easing the financial burden facing other special-needs families who have to buy a modified van.
To date ...
The One Boy One Van Foundation became a registered charitable organization (BN 85716 1228 RR0001) in January 2009. Since that time, we have worked with local and provincial organizations to ensure that special needs families have the financial means to purchase wheelchair accessible vans for their handicapped child.
In the past 18 months, the Foundation has helped eight children and their families by donating $16,000 toward the purchase of modified vans.
Our Mission
The One Boy One Van Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for physically challenged children and their families in Eastern Ontario. The foundation was inspired by Geordi Henry, a wheelchair-dependent young boy with unique physical needs.
The foundation provides funds to low-income families who need help purchasing a wheelchair accessible vehicle to transport their child.
The One Boy One Van Foundation believes that by helping one child attain unrestricted mobility, we can make a difference in the lives of many.
Our Vision
The One Boy One Van Foundation will be a provincially recognized source of funding support. The foundation will collaborate with, and be accountable to the families it assists, as well as to its community partners.
Our Values
The Foundation's work with its families, its volunteers and its community will be governed by the following values:
- Respect
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Ethics
- Honesty
- Accountability
Our Directors
Margaret Sampson, Treasurer
Peter Anderson, Secretary
Ann Parizeau, Volunteer Coordinator
Amanda George, Chair
Amanda is a devoted single mother of two teenagers. She looks forward to the summer months when she can boot around Ottawa on her little red scooter.
Margaret is an Ottawa librarian and researcher. She enjoys any sort of two-wheeled adventure during the summer months, and snow sports in the winter.
Peter lives in Ottawa with his wife and two daughters and enjoys the outdoor activities that are available in Ottawa all year round.
Ann has been a nurse for 20 years, working mostly in pediatrics. She lives in the country with her two dogs, Abby and Tobby.
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