On Sunday, November 26, the Rotary Club of Lakeway/Lake Travis presented a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Touring Edition minivan to Adults Independent and Motivated (AIM), which will use the vehicle to transport adults with disabilities who are part of its program to work and other activities.
“We are incredibly grateful for this gift of transportation from the Rotary Club of Lakeway/Lake Travis, which is the gift of independence for our AIMers,” AIM President Ashley Sanchez said. “Because most AIMers don’t drive, without reliable transportation, they would not be able to move out of their parents’ homes. We are fortunate to have a community partner in the Rotary Club of Lakeway/Lake Travis that supports our mission of independence.”
AIM is a non-profit, growing community of adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome and autism, who are living independently, with appropriate support, in their own apartments. These supports include transportation to and from work, AIM activities, socials and other events.
Although AIM already owned one vehicle, recent growth necessitated the addition of another one. As a small nonprofit, however, affording that 2nd vehicle was a daunting prospect.
The total package value of the minivan is $50,000, representing the Rotary Club's belief in inclusion and the power of community support to transform lives. Dick Rundell, president of Rotary Club of Lakeway/Lake Travis, spoke about the membership’s enthusiasm when they considered AIM’s need for a new vehicle, noting that the club approved the gift in record time.
AIMer Alicia Durbin spoke about how critical access to reliable transportation is to her ability to live independently. “This van will make it possible for me and all the other AIMers to have transportation to our jobs so we can be more independent. We will also get to use the van when we travel to fun things too, like dances and other fun activities and things like Special Olympics practices and competitions, and our weekly sports activities. Now with this beautiful new van, wherever we go, everyone will know we are part of AIM and that Rotary is proud of us and here to support us.”
