Mobilize Mankind

Wow! Looks like it's been three years since my last review and I'm still here! :) Previously I'd mentioned the founders' endless commitment and compassion, and it's still going strong. I'm so proud to be part of an organization that is so clear and dedicated to its mission, the communities in which they operate, and the volunteers. One of many experiences I'll never forget is when they'd arranged to deliver and fit twin, 16-year old boys with donated power-chairs. These practically full-grown 'young men' had been being carried by their mother, who was a small woman! The whole town came out for the occasion and they'd brought snacks and even a pinata. Gayle and volunteers were helping to fit the chairs properly, and once they were finished and the family was trained in how to care for and keep the chairs charged, those boys took off. Watching their faces as they experienced physical freedom for the first time was absolutely unforgettable.

I have volunteered with Mobilize Mankind for the past 10 years. I am a special education teacher working with students with severe to moderate physical disabilities. My work with this organization has been focused on assisting the staff, families and administration of schools with the physical and medical needs of their students to better facilitate learning in their school setting. MM has consistently worked closely with families and volunteers and developed meaningful ongoing relationships. They have worked very hard to provide much needed supplies and assistance to help with the children's medical and physical needs. I am proud to be a part of such a dedicated and heartfelt group of professional people who truly want to help the disabled children and families of Baja Sur. I have worked with volunteers of all ages there and all have had unforgettable experiences and are truly changed by the work they do. Mobilize Mankind has my complete devotion and utmost respect as they have consistently set an example of putting the needs of the children first, and keeping their focus on lasting health and comfort for the children they serve. Sincerely, Cindy Evans

I have been a volunteer with Mobilize Mankind for more than 10 years. Besides the local work in Eugene, Oregon, I have traveled down to Baja seven times. I brought my daughter down with me several times as a child and as an adult, and she has been inspired by the work that she did down there. It was one of the experiences that influenced her decision to became a speech language pathologist. She now works in a public school district.
I have been involved in volunteer work throughout my life, but I have never had as much of an impact on people's lives as I have with this organization. The resources in Baja are so minimal and the need is great. Providing a wheelchair to a child with a disability, who would otherwise not have one, is critical to the health of the child and also to the families who do their best to rig up strollers and wagons to transport their children. The Mexican families are extremely grateful, welcoming and generous to us all. I have never felt such warmth and gratitude. My work with this organization has given me back as much as I have put into it. I have helped recruit dozens of volunteers and they all give me the same feedback. We have improved the lives of hundreds of children and we hope to continue this work indefinitely.

I have been volunteering with Mobilize Mankind for more than a decade and I am as enthusiastic today as I was in the beginning! Mobilize Mankind's "target population" is children with disabilities in Baja Sur, Mexico. The organization collects donated equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers, from various agencies, businesses and individuals in the US and transports it to warehouses in southern Baja. Greg and Gayle Edwards, the directors of Mobilize Mankind, travel to various communities in the region, meeting children and their families. They then adjust and "remake" equipment to fit the specific needs of each child, fitting the wheelchair or other equipment using their expertise and experience. During spring break each year a group of volunteers from the US arrive, to assist with the equipment clinics. Additionally, we volunteer at various schools for children with disabilities, providing support, education and sharing ideas from our experiences in US schools. I am a physical therapist. Volunteers also include special education teachers, assistive technology specialists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, etc. The organization is all about collaboration, with families, the local schools, government organizations and businesses.

When Hurrican Odile hit the Region last September, Mobilize Mankind mobilized! Despite the fact that their warehouse was damaged, they focused all their efforts on assisting families in need. This included rebuilding a home for a family who have a child with a disability. The organization is all HEART!

Volunteering for Mobilize Mankind has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I give it 5 stars!

For anyone interested in contributing time or financial support to an organization that is grassroots and powered by passion, you've found it. Primarily staffed by volunteers, Mobilize has provided countless children with mobility, access to education, and many other opportunities to engage in their communities. Greg and Gayle have a bottomless reserve of compassion and energy and have an incredible ability to build relationships in the community to help children gain access to the world. Baja is a beautiful place with beautiful people who are grateful for the services that Mobilize has been able to provide. As a pediatric occupational therapist, I was looking for an opportunity to donate my services in exchange for some interesting life experiences--and, wow did I get my investment's worth! My time as a volunteer with Mobilize has enriched my life far beyond anything I could ever have hoped to impart. THANK YOU MOBILIZE!!