One woman’s struggle transforms into registered charity

The One Boy, One Van Foundation, which provides financial aid to families requiring an accessible vehicle for a child with severe mobility impairments, has officially received charitable status. “It’s obviously a very lengthy process, but our application seemed to be in good order,” says founder Amanda George. “I was thrilled; it was amazing.”

Inspiration for creating the non-profit group came after George worked tirelessly from the fall of 2006 until late 2007 to raise almost $60,000 for a specially-modified van for her 14-year-old-son, Geordi Henry.

Geordi was diagnosed from birth with a number of different illnesses, including severe cerebral palsy, scoliosis, microcephaly – an abnormally small skull – and a seizure disorder. Because of muscle tightness and dislocated hips, Geordi, who is just over three feet tall, is unable to sit upright, and must rely on others to help him turn, roll, lift and carry him.

After over a year of fundraising ventures – with money coming from various initiatives, including a garage sale, support from Geordi's school, Thomas D'Arcy McGee Catholic School, and financial offsets from local organizations – George was finally able to purchase the van in late 2007.

Motivated by the challenges of raising funds for her vehicle, George launched the foundation last fall. After submitting their application to achieve charitable status in January, George was notified by the beginning of April it had been accepted.

The major difference now for One Boy, One Van is the ability to provide tax receipts, she explains, making donations and financial support all the more appealing, and the ability to approach larger corporations more easily. “It shows we have been reviewed by an outside body, and our mission found to be valid,” she continues. “It gives us more credibility; it’s validation.”

Now that the foundation has achieved that status, the next order of business is preparing for One Boy, One Van’s upcoming fundraiser, George says, the “Really Big Booksale” to be held on Saturday, June 27 at Convent Glen Catholic School. “We’re working hard on that,” she adds, explaining all funds raised will be directed back into the organization’s services. “We have thousands of books and CDs.”

Otherwise, One Boy, One Van is busy attempting to bolster its online presence, George continues, and build a solid volunteer base.

The group has also been strengthening connections and making links with organizations like the March of Dimes, the Ottawa Children’s Treatment Centre and CHEO, she recounts, describing their help as instrumental when looking for future support.

Beyond that, George is also planning to help local families get their own accessible vehicles, explaining that One Boy, One Van has already received several applications. “We’re starting to work with them,” she continues, adding they hope to help three families by the end of the year.

But George stresses they’re in no rush, understanding the process can be a long one even if funding comes through. “I’m very happy with the progress made so far,” she says. “We’ve gotten a little further than we had anticipated. I’d like to see this succeed, and I’d like to ensure we take each step that’s necessary. “We’re proceeding cautiously, but making good progress.”