We have a simple solution to address the basic mobility needs of millions living with disabilities in the developing world: a cost-effective and durable wheelchair.

All three of our wheelchair models are designed to be resilient enough to withstand regular use in the rugged terrain more common in the developing world. Our wheelchair design and distribution model allows us to maximize our impact around the globe, lifting thousands off the ground and gifting them with not only mobility, but a renewed sense of dignity, hope, and independence.

Our Wheelchairs

Design Goals:

GEN_1 (now retired) is a multipurpose wheelchair designed for use in rugged terrain. It provides basic mobility to a broad range of recipients, and it is generally recommended for those who do not need adjustments to the wheelchair to aid postural support.

Global Roll Out: 2001

Sizes

One Size

Colors

White chair, black frame and wheels

Folding Capability

No

Maintenance

Designed to provide 3-5 years of service with normal use, providing it is appropriately maintained. Each recipient is supplied with a wrench, air pump, patch kit and recipient manual for home maintenance, plus contact information for local resources should service, maintenance, further training or information be required.

Assembly Time

Wheelchairs arrive unassembled; assembly takes about 15 minutes.

Footrest Adjustability

Yes – single solid footrest for both feet can be adjusted to accommodate four different leg lengths and may be pivoted forward or backward as needed at each length.

Wheels / Tires

Rear tires are 24″ with medium tread and an inflatable inner tube, with chrome-steel rims and black-painted steel push-rims attached in four places. Front wheels are large rubber castors for increased wheelbase and stability.

Harness

Optional over-the-shoulder 5-point harness helps provide secure seating for smaller recipients and recipients requiring additional postural support.

Seating

Seat and backrest are a single piece of injection-molded polypropylene resin attached to a custom steel frame. The seat and backrest are UV-resistant to diminish damage from sunlight.

Propulsion

Push-rims on tires for self-propulsion or attendant propulsion through direct contact with frame.

Brakes

Independent steel-locking system on each rear wheel

Net Weight

17.4 kg / 38.4 lbs

 

Design Goals:

GEN_2 was designed with adjustability in mind, allowing for a more customized fit to address each individual recipient’s personal needs. Recommended for smaller recipients, those who require additional adjustment to the wheelchair and/or those who need to commute longer distances.

Global Roll Out: 2009

Sizes

Four Sizes (S, M, L, XL)

Colors

Light blue frame, black wheels

Folding Capability

No

Maintenance

Designed to provide 3-5 years of service with normal use, providing it is appropriately maintained. Each recipient is supplied with a wrench, air pump, patch kit and recipient manual for home maintenance, plus contact information for local resources should service, maintenance, further training or information be required.

Assembly Time

Wheelchairs arrive unassembled; assembly takes about 20 minutes.

Footrest Adjustability

Yes – two independent footrests can each be adjusted to accommodate any combination of ten different leg lengths and may be angled as needed at each length. Footrests can also swing away 180˚ to aid transfers and include an optional calf support strap.

Wheels / Tires

Rear tires are 26″ with medium tread and an inflatable inner tube, with chrome-steel rims and black-painted steel push-rims attached in four places. Front wheels are large rubber castors for increased wheelbase and stability.

Harness

Optional seat belt with quick release to provide secure seating for recipients who require additional postural support.

Seating

Seat is attached to a custom steel frame by polypropylene webbing straps secured with parachute cord. The adjustable backrest (four height positions) is composed of EVA foam padding inside a water-resistant, fire-retardant nylon cover.

Propulsion

Push-rims on tires for self-propulsion or attendant propulsion using included handlebars.

Brakes

Independent steel-locking system on each rear wheel

Net Weight

16.5 kg / 36.4 lbs

 

Design Goals:

GEN_3 mirrors the customizability of GEN_2 but has the added benefit of being foldable to address needs we’ve seen in the field for better home storage and more convenient transportability.

Global Roll Out: 2013

Sizes

Four Sizes (S, M, L, XL)

Colors

Bright blue frame, black wheels

Folding Capability

Yes

Maintenance

Designed to provide 3-5 years of service with normal use, providing it is appropriately maintained. Each recipient is supplied with a wrench, air pump, patch kit and recipient manual for home maintenance, plus contact information for local resources should service, maintenance, further training or information be required.

Assembly Time

Wheelchairs arrive mostly assembled; assembly takes about 10 minutes

Footrest Adjustability

Yes – two independent footrests can each be adjusted to accommodate any combination of ten different leg lengths and may be angled as needed at each length. Footrests can also swing away 180˚ to aid transfers and include an optional calf support strap.

Wheels / Tires

Rear tires are 26″ with medium tread and an inflatable inner tube, with chrome-steel rims and black-painted steel push-rims attached in four places. Front wheels are large rubber castors for increased wheelbase and stability.

Harness

Optional seatbelt with quick release to provide secure seating for recipients who require additional postural support.

Seating

Seat is attached to a custom steel frame by polypropylene webbing straps secured with parachute cord. The adjustable backrest (four height positions) is composed of EVA foam padding inside a water-resistant, fire-retardant nylon cover.

Propulsion

Push-rims on tires for self-propulsion or attendant propulsion using included handlebars.

Brakes

Independent steel-locking system on each rear wheel

Net Weight

20.4 kg / 45.6 lbs