National AMBUCS, Inc.

National AMBUCS, Inc. is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization in the United States, with a mission to inspire mobility and independence for people in need. The organization was founded on May 18, 1922, by William L. White in Birmingham, Alabama.

Mission

The mission of AMBUCS is fulfilled through a network of over 157 local chapters across more than 36 states. Their primary objectives include:

• Amtryke Adaptive Tricycles: Providing Amtryke adaptive tricycles to individuals, particularly children, with disabilities. Approximately 3,500 Amtrykes are distributed annually, with around 40,000 provided since the program's inception.

• Scholarships for Therapists: Awarding educational scholarships to students pursuing careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and hearing audiology. Over $8.9 million has been awarded since 1955.

• Community Service: Engaging in various community service projects, such as building home access ramps and accessible playgrounds. Chapters report hundreds of thousands of service hours annually.

Structure and Membership

National AMBUCS operates with approximately 5,000 volunteer members across its chapters. The organization is supported by a small staff based at the AMBUCS Resource Center.

History

The organization's early success was influenced by William L. White's initial fundraising efforts, which involved selling turpentine cups to finance his vision for a national service organization. In the 1990s, AMBUCS expanded its focus to include the Amtryke Program, inspired by a pediatric physical therapist, Sue Haywood, who recognized the need for affordable adaptive tricycles for children with disabilities.

Partnerships

AMBUCS works closely with physical, occupational, and speech therapists to identify individuals who can benefit from their programs and services. Many therapists are active members of AMBUCS chapters, contributing to the organization's mission to inspire mobility and independence nationwide.