Culver City Observer -

To celebrate Disability Awareness Month, Joni and Friends, KWAVE, and Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa will cohost a fun-filled family day dedicated to increasing disability public awareness. This event will take place Saturday, March 25th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, 3800 Fairview Street, Santa Ana, CA 92704. The afternoon will include a complimentary lunch (served between 12:00 and 12:40 p.m.) and an inspirational message from Joni Eareckson Tada, Founder and CEO of Joni and Friends who has lived with quadriplegia in a wheelchair since she became paralyzed in a diving accident in 1967.

During the event, Joni and Friends will be collecting used wheelchairs and mobility equipment to be restored through our US prison partnership, for people with disabilities and who have no access to wheelchairs around the world. Representatives will provide information about outreaches and resources for people impacted by disability. There will also be a first-time public reveal and demonstration of a new innovative wheelchair, designed in partnership with Joni and Friends and soon to be available for international distribution by the organization. This pediatric/small adult wheelchair exceeds capabilities typically available in developing countries including a market-leading adjustment range to accommodate growth, support, and durability. Its tilt-in-space feature allows the wheelchair to grow with its occupant. Distribution of this wheelchair model will provide life-changing mobility to recipients.