United Spinal Association is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization formed in 1946 by paralyzed veterans who pioneered the disability rights movement.

Our mission is to improve the quality of life of all Americans living with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D), including multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS), and post polio.

The core belief of United Spinal is that, despite living with a disability or mobility impairment, a full, pro-active, and rewarding life is not only possible, it is within the reach of anyone with the strength to believe it and the courage to make it happen. For over 60 years, we have been an active voice in the disability community and a leading provider of outstanding programs and services for individuals with disabilities.

United Spinal is committed to promoting inclusion, improving accessibility, fostering independence, enhancing mobility, and demanding equality for all individuals living with SCI/D.

• Hosting lectures, training programs, and seminars on pertinent health care issues facing the disability community
• Supporting organizations for SCI/D health care professionals and have sponsored national spinal cord medicine and health conferences
• Donating over $52 million for cutting-edge spinal cord research
• Launching and supporting two of the most prominent facilities in the Nation, including the Yale Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research

Provide participatory events for children with disabilities by:

• Developing events that offer children who are wheelchair users an opportunity to discover the positive benefits of adaptive sports and build confidence and self-esteem

Facilitate social and regulatory change by:

• Advocating at the national, state, and local levels; participate in action coalitions and groups; educate the public through outreach and campaigns; and give expert testimony at governmental hearings and inquiries

• Hosting premier events to promote active living and independence for all Americans with disabilities
• Advocating and drafting significant provisions of landmark federal legislation including The Americans with Disabilities Act, The Fair Housing Amendments Act, and The Air Carrier Access Act

Enhance the lives of our members by:

• Providing self-advocacy and coaching support; wheelchair and assistive technology consultation; counseling services; and disaster assistance

Supporting the goals, ambitions, and desires of our members and the disability community

• Publishing high impact, informative journals and publications covering the latest in social change, healthy living, and self-help

Provide guidance and motivation through peer mentoring by:

• Connecting newly injured people with former rehabilitation patients who have successfully adapted to living with spinal cord injury
• Mentoring newly injured people to improve their quality of life