An organisation which is committed to improving the lives of people with physical disabilities is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month.
The Irish Wheelchair Association, which was founded in 1960 by a small group of wheelchair users, enjoyed an afternoon of music and entertainment in the Welcome Inn Hotel, Castlebar, on Wednesday to celebrate the milestone anniversary.
The organisation has grown into a vibrant network of 20,000 members and more than 2,000 staff as well as many dedicated volunteers. Mayor of Castlebar Councillor Michael Kilcoyne congratulated the organisation and spoke of the excellent work done in day centres, community employment schemes, and by volunteers who work on behalf of the organisation.
Regional director of the IWA Tony Cunningham said the organisation was set up by people with disabilities and must be sustained by people with disabilities. He thanked the HSE and FÁS, the major stakeholders, for their continued support as well as all other organisations which contribute to their work.
The organisation provides services nationally and throughout County Mayo, such as resource and outreach centres, personal assistants, transport, driving tuition, independent living apartments and houses, youth services, respite, advocacy, etc.
Resource and outreach centres are held throughout the county. People with disabilities, both physical and sensory, can go along and avail of a broad range of activities including social, educational, and community.
Another major service IWA provides is the assisted living service which supports independent living and quality of life for many people with disabilities. A tailored service is provided which will support the individual to live independently in the community.
IWA also has a holiday centre in Donamon called Cuisle. It has 35 en suite fully accessible bedrooms where 70 guests can be catered for at any one time. Facilities include a spa, cinema room, hairdressing salon, and therapy room.
The IWA birthday parties were held in different locations throughout the country including two in Mayo. The Castlebar party took place on Wednesday and a second party swings into action in Belmullet today (Friday ). All members and friends who are celebrating their 50th in 2010 are invited to go along and celebrate.
For further information contact Martina Reid, service co-ordinator at the IWA office at 7 Davitt Lane, Castlebar, telephone 094 906 0937.
