Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store, a day at the park, or dinner with friends, getting out into the community is a core experience for the individuals whom Typical Life Corporation serves. But for those who use wheelchairs, these activities become difficult without the proper type of transportation.
TLC’s new rear-entry wheelchair-accessible van will provide one more link to the world beyond home for these individuals, creating additional opportunities for a richer quality of life.
The van, a 2021 Chrysler Voyager driven just 12,000 miles, was paid for in part by the 2025 Give Local York campaign, which brought in $6,868 from 63 donors for TLC. The van will be stationed at TLC’s Oakleigh House, where a wheelchair-bound individual will take up residence in June.
Accessibility enhances well-being
TLC recently remodeled Oakleigh House to make it handicap-accessible. Because of the van, the individual moving in will be able to travel and participate more fully in the community. For those who receive residential support from TLC, accessible transportation is essential to their independence and well-being.
“With the van, they’ll be able to access the community, and that is what we strive for, for individuals to be independent and have that community engagement,” says Autara Hampton, Director of Residential Services. “Having vehicles to be able to get our individuals out in the community to just be part of everyday life is very important.”
That access can significantly boost their quality of life.
“I think it improves their well-being. Whether they’re going shopping for themselves to make themselves feel better or having dinner with friends within TLC or friends outside TLC, it’s just important for them,” Autara says.
A fortunate find
Jeff Bass, Director of Properties and Purchasing at TLC, oversaw the vehicle acquisition and says the team was lucky to find such a high-quality van through a company that was closing. The rear-entry feature makes a big difference, Jeff says. Loading or unloading of vans with side entry often becomes cramped, even in handicap-accessible parking spots.
“It’ll literally allow the van to be backed up to the garage, which will have ramps and every access out of the elements, to load and unload,” he says. “The rear entry just gives unlimited options.”
The van seats up to five people including the driver and one wheelchair rider and can be configured to accommodate two wheelchairs. It also includes newer safety features, such as an automatic ratcheting system, which allows employees to quickly and safely secure wheelchairs without climbing over passengers.
TLC maintains 58 vehicles, including five wheelchair-accessible vans. Some of its residences are served by more than one vehicle, depending on staffing and the needs of individuals.
Community support is crucial to providing transportation for TLC individuals.
“With vehicles, it’s an expense that’s always there. Wheelchair vans are not cheap, so finding a good used one as well as fundraisers, it definitely helps,” Jeff says. “Their support is needed and greatly appreciated.”