The New York City-based United Spinal Association has received a generous donation from Pontiac and General Motors Corporation of Motorati Island in the Second Life.

You can learn more about the newly-named Motorability Island at www.unitedspinal.org/motorability/.

Motorability Island in Second Life (SL) is a vast, 7 sim complex designed specifically to promote United Spinal Association in SL, via the Education Center and other builds dotted around the Island. Visitors to the Island will find 2 full oval circuits, a full inter-sim road system, car themed nightclub with live DJs, go-kart racing, car dealerships, scooter shack and the rather cool AskPatty.com center too, which offers automotive advice for women, from some of the top women in the US automotive industry.

Paul Tobin, President and CEO of United Spinal Association, stated “through this gift our members and the general public will be able to enjoy a variety of car culture-related virtual events and pure racing fun. Other planned activities on Motorability Island will help us to raise awareness and funds that support United Spinal programs in the real world.”

United Spinal Association Board of Directors member Jody DeVere of southern California is responsible for the Motorati contribution. Ms. DeVere is President of AskPatty.com—Automotive Advice for Women—and she serves as Chair of United Spinal’s Motorsports Committee, which provides opportunities for drivers with disabilities who use hand controls to participate in solo racing events around the country.

During 2007, Ms. DeVere was the moving force for several successful fund raising events for United Spinal Association on Pontiac’s Motorati Island and at real life auto races. Ms. DeVere plans to ramp up Motorability Island activities quickly in 2008.

For more information about United Spinal Association’s Motorsports Program, please take the off ramp to http://www.unitedspinal.org/motorability/united-spinal-motorsports/

United Spinal Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Americans with spinal cord injuries or disorders. For over 60 years, we have fought for veteran’s rights and for the rights of all individuals with disabilities. Our initiatives in research and education, government policy and legislation, civil rights and advocacy, accessibility and architectural design, and competitive athletics ensure that veterans and all Americans with spinal cord injury and disease live healthier, more independent and productive lives as active members of their communities. For more information, please visit www.unitedspinal.org or call 800-404-2898.