"AMBUCS - FREE WHEELCHAIR RAMPS AND ACCESS RAMPS" PROGRAM
Based in North Carolina, USA.
Available across the USA.
Program Description
"Building ramps to create accessible homes and businesses is another project which AMBUCS chapters hold close to their hearts. A ramp building guide is available to guide you through the building process. National AMBUCS also offers modular ramp alternatives through a partnership with Prairie View Industries...to receive the AMBUCS discount, you must order directly through the AMBUCS Store."
-ambucs.com
AMBUCS works with sponsor companies that can provide volunteer employees to help build ramps as part of their community service work. In addition to AMBUCS, high schools, colleges, church groups, service clubs, scout organizations, unions, employee service groups, government agencies, and other organizations can be approached for collaboration in building free wheelchair ramps for seniors.
AMBUCS provides a helpful 'How to Build a Wheelchair Ramp Guide' on their website.
The “How to Guide” covers topics such as how to form a team of volunteers, zoning requirements, installation of safety features including handrails, guardrails, how to determine the ramp slope, and useful questions to consider before building a ramp such as:
Which entryway is best for the ramp? Consider the inside as well as outside.
Narrow doors or hallways can prevent access to a doorway from the inside.
Placement of existing door handles and swing direction of doors.
Where does the person want to go most often (garage, driveway, front sidewalk)? Where is the best place to access transportation?
If there is an attached garage, can a ramp be placed inside?
How will the ramp affect available yard space?
Are there barriers such as trees, shrubs, poles, etc.?
How will the ramp appear?
What are the local zoning requirements for lot lines and set backs?
Will the person’s abilities change?
Will the person use the ramp independently or will help be needed?
Who will provide help and what are that person’s abilities?
AMBUCS is a national non-profit organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities. AMBUCS focuses on fundraising and creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
AMBUCS's mobility projects include building free wheelchair ramps and access ramps to make homes accessible and the AmTryke therapeutic tricycle program.
The AmTryke is a therapeutic tricycle which can be hand and/or foot operated and is designed to accommodate cycle riders of all ages from children to seniors with varying degrees of physical limitations. Senior bicycling can greatly improve senior mobility and quality of life. Physical and occupational therapists endorse AmTryke tricycle's as they have seen the therapeutic benefits to patients via improved motor skills, strength development and self-esteem.
source: ambucs.com
