What does United Spinal do?

United Spinal Association is a national 501(c) (3) nonprofit membership organization dedicated to empowering people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D), including veterans, to live successful and fulfilling lives. Directed by people with disabilities, United Spinal Association works to overcome the stigma of disability and remove physical barriers to inclusion for wheelchair users. We are united in our belief that business, people with disabilities and society all benefit from providing equal opportunity to pursue passions, employment, and recreational opportunities. Our goal is to actively support people with SCI/D through valuable programs and services that maximize independence and create opportunities to become leaders, advocates, and innovators. United Spinal transforms the lives of people with SCI/D by: 1) Advocating for enforcement and enhancement of disability rights, including access to healthcare, mobility equipment, public transportation, rehabilitation, community services and supports, and the built environment 2) Empowering our members, their loved ones, care providers and professionals with resources, one-on-one assistance, and peer support 3) Promoting independence through employment, assisting individuals with employment opportunities, and ensuring that wheelchair users have equal access to housing, shopping and recreational opportunities 4)Promoting civic participation and self-advocacy