Irvine-Based Nonprofit Raises $1.7 Million For Wheelchair Users

LAKE FOREST, CA — The Irvine-based nonprofit organization Free Wheelchair Mission raised $1.7 million during its annual event, Miracle of Mobility Live, held near Lake Forest. The funds will be used to send more than 21,250 wheelchairs to people living with disabilities in developing countries.

The annual fundraiser, which took place on July 22, featured musical performances, special guests and testimonials from wheelchair recipients. The organizers' goal behind Miracle of Mobility Live was to raise awareness and resources about their organization’s objective to provide mobility to people with disabilities across the world. While last year’s Miracle of Mobility Live event was fully online due to pandemic restrictions, this year’s event presented a hybrid format with options to participate virtually and at in-person watch parties across the country.

The final tally of $1.7 million exceeded the nonprofit’s original goal and surpassed what was raised at last year’s virtual event. So far, the program has garnered more than 330,000 online views, with hundreds attending in-person watch parties based in Orange County and Prescott, Arizona, on the day of the event.

“We are so grateful for the incredible support and generosity of sponsors, donors, and volunteers who participated in this event, both in-person and virtually,” said Free Wheelchair Mission CEO Nuka Solomon. “While the pandemic continues to present challenges around the world, we are encouraged by the overwhelming response to this year’s new format.”

Special guests included award-winning entertainer Mario Lopez, comedian Michael Jr. and Paralympic swimmer Mallory Weggemann. The event also featured musical performances by For KING & COUNTRY and We Are Messengers.

This year’s Miracle of Mobility Live marks the nonprofit’s 20th anniversary of the event, presented by Advisors Mortgage, LLC.

"It is an honor for me to be part of such a wonderful event," said special guest Mallory Weggemann. "Free Wheelchair Mission is doing amazing work by providing wheelchairs and mobility to so many in need around the world.”

Free Wheelchair Mission continues to accept donations year-round, and the full program for Miracle of Mobility Live can be viewed on the event’s website.