David Fraser is the Chair at Wheels For Hope, having been with the organisation since 2021. He recently sat down with us to answer some questions about his tenure with Wheels For Hope.
1. How did you first get involved with Wheels For Hope?
My involvement with Wheels For Hope started with my desire to make a tangible difference in an area I am passionate about. I was first introduced to Wheels for Hope through my affiliation working in the WA motoring industry.
I was immediately inspired by the Foundation’s commitment to giving the gift of mobility to Western Australian families with disabilities. After learning more about their great work and the difference they were making, I felt compelled to become involved. Being involved with Wheels For Hope has been deeply rewarding both personally and professionally.
2. What are the biggest changes you have seen during your time on the Board?
Since joining the Wheels For Hope Board, I’ve seen remarkable progress in several areas that have profoundly enhanced our impact. One of the biggest changes has been our approach to community engagement.
Through strengthened partnerships and targeted outreach, we’ve raised greater awareness about the barriers faced by those with mobility challenges. This shift has fostered more sustainable support from donors, enabling us to plan for the future with greater confidence. I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and optimistic about the continued impact we can achieve.
3. What do you find the most rewarding about being involved with Wheels For Hope?
The most rewarding part of being involved with Wheels For Hope is seeing firsthand the difference reliable transportation can make in people’s lives. Knowing that we’re helping individuals and families who face significant mobility challenges to access essential services – like medical appointments, therapies, or simply connecting with their community – gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Each story I hear about how Wheels For Hope has impacted someone’s daily life reminds me of the power of this work. It’s incredibly motivating to be part of a team that provides a lifeline to those who need it most, offering them greater independence and a chance to thrive.
For me, being able to contribute to such a meaningful cause and witness the resilience of the people we serve is both humbling and inspiring.
4. Has being part of the Wheels For Hope Board changed your life, or outlook on life, in any way?
Being part of the Wheels For Hope Board has profoundly impacted my outlook on life by deepening my understanding of the struggles that many people face in simply getting from place to place. It’s given me a greater appreciation for the daily challenges that those with mobility issues encounter, challenges that many of us may take for granted.
Witnessing the resilience and gratitude of the individuals and families we serve has been both humbling and inspiring.
It’s taught me the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in building stronger communities, and it has reinforced my belief in the power of compassion and community support. This experience has shaped not only my approach to giving back but has also encouraged me to seek out other ways to create meaningful impact in people’s lives.
5. What do you wish more people knew about Wheels For Hope?
I wish more people understood just how essential Wheels For Hope’s work is for individuals and families facing mobility challenges. Often, transportation is seen as a basic need, but for those with limited options, it can be a major barrier to accessing medical care, education, and social connection.
Wheels For Hope provides a vital service that goes beyond transportation; it offers freedom, dignity, and a lifeline to independence for those we support.
I also wish people knew about the incredible dedication of our (very) small team of people, who make all of this possible. Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every shared story directly helps extend our reach and impact. Supporting Wheels For Hope isn’t just helping people get from point A to point B – it’s about opening doors and changing lives.
About Wheels for Hope
Wheels For Hope is a charitable organisation in Western Australia providing accessible transport to families of children with disability. We believe every individual should have the right to move freely through the world, and we work to make that a reality in our community.
Your charitable donations (and those from our corporate sponsors and partners) help us continue to provide the gift of mobility for people with disability in Western Australia. Consider becoming a sponsor today, or contact Wheels For Hope for more information about how you can help!
