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CHALLENGE AND OPPORTUNITY
The sight of a young person using a wheelchair often restricts the perception of what that young
person can contribute to his or her community and world. All too often limited expectations for
young people with disabilities yield fewer social contacts and job opportunities as they become
adults. Unfortunately, it is common for adults with disabilities to face barriers of indifference
and isolation from an uninformed general public. Existing private and public programs that
typically focus on education, recreation, and/or sporting events fail to address important areas of
socialization and self-discovery which would assist youth to become more self-confident,
independent, and productive citizens.
This void in programs that build the self-confidence and independence of children with
disabilities created a window of opportunity for us to launch a new, break-through organization
called WINNERS ON WHEELS (WOW). Founded in 1991, WOW is a non-profit organization
determined to inspire young Americans with disabilities to "be all they can be" focusing upon an
important developmental sphere - the building of a healthy self-image.
WOW's MISSION
To empower youth in wheelchairs to be all that they can be, challenging them to reframe their environment and to contribute confidently to their community and world.
PHILOSOPHY
WOW's philosophy states that by encouraging personal achievement through creative learning and fun you can develop an individual's self-esteem. People with healthy self-esteem are happier
and more productive. WOW strives to guide each Winner to achieve at his or her own talent and
skill level, in order to assist each individual in becoming a valuable, contributing citizen.
PROGRAM
WOW emphasizes positive approaches, provides expanded life and team experiences, introduces
role models, and gives young participants opportunities to stack one success upon another. The
program is structured to allow Winners to earn "Wheel" Awards (much like scouting's merit
badges), both individually and as a group. Six Spokes (objectives) must be completed in order
to earn a Wheel with Winners working on 10 to 12 Wheels a year. Wheels cover areas such as
science and nature, sports and games, arts and crafts, entertainment, interpersonal skills and
community service.
WOW strives to continuously improve its program and services so that the children are better
served. Although there are stringent guidelines and rules for the protection of youth, the program
itself is flexible enough to permit growth and adaptations of new ideas.
CIRCLES
In April 1991 the pacesetter Circle was established in Fresno, California. Winners enjoyed their
experiences, parents and guardians raved about the benefits of the program, and the volunteers
said they received far more than they gave. Using the Fresno Circle as a basis, curriculum, and
procedures were established and actions were taken to extend the program nation wide. Today
hundreds of Winners in 29 states are experiencing the fun, opportunities and excitement of being
a member of a WOW Circle.
Circles meet at least twice a month for two hours, usually on a Saturday, at sites provided by
corporate sponsors, schools, recreation centers, churches, or hospitals Volunteers lead the
meetings, assisted by members of the "Pit-Crew." Meetings follow a pattern of an Opening
Sound-Off Ceremony, Hub Time, Pit Stop, Mini-Wheels and Checkered Flag. Learning occurs
through fun.
Circle development is coordinated by the WOW national office. Potential Leaders travel to
Fresno and attend WOW University (WOW U), a two-day intensive training workshop, where
they learn how to start and maintain a Circle. When they return to their communities the magic
of WOW begins.
FUNDING
WOW funds are allocated to the operation, support and activities of Circles. Each Circle is
provided a petty cash allotment for refreshments, field trips, award ceremonies, holiday parties,
and special projects. Winners receive a WOW T-shirt, a pit pass, a backpack, and a subscription
to WOW Connection (a publication for and about Winners). Leaders receive a WOW T shirt, a
briefcase bag, a mug, and the Leader's Letter (a newsletter to keep Leaders connected).
WOW's success has been made possible through the support of corporate sponsors, general
corporate gifts, individual donations and foundations grants. Our sponsors believe that an
investment in WOW is an investment dedicated to the future integrity and cultural integration of
young people with disabilities. We treasure every one of our generous donors...and are
constantly seeking new ones.
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