fbpx
Increase font size
Decrease font size
Dyslexie font

1300 663 243

Dyslexie font

News

Back to all News

Freedom Wheels Volunteer Spotlight – Michael

Posted on 7th Mar 2023

At Solve-TAD, our volunteers play a crucial role in helping us achieve our mission of designing and developing assistive technology solutions for people living with disabilities. With over 200 volunteers across regional and metro NSW and VIC, our team of dedicated and passionate individuals are making a significant impact on people’s lives.

One of our volunteers, Michael, is a Freedom Wheels Technical Volunteer in Melbourne. He helps our Occupational Therapists with the metro Freedom Wheels clinic every Thursday. Michael has been with us for about 18 months and has loved every minute of it. He was an IT Program Manager, but unfortunately lost his job during the pandemic. Despite this setback, Michael has found purpose and fulfillment in helping others right here with us.

”I was very successful, but then the pandemic came, and then I turned 65…there was no chance for me to find a new job. You have to give the chance to the younger generation”.

“I love working with other volunteers to help people ride a bike for the first time. It gives me purpose.”

Michael is an avid cyclist and has always enjoyed tinkering with bikes. He loves the hands-on work of bike repair and maintenance, and the thrill of a good ride afterward. Michael’s passion for cycling led him to find Solve-TAD through his local council website in 2020, and he was quickly hired as a volunteer.

“I love working on bikes because it’s very hands on, and at the end, you get to go for a bike ride, it’s the best feeling!”.

One of the best parts of Michael’s experience as a Solve-TAD volunteer is the support and encouragement he receives from his wife. She loves hearing about the stories he brings home each week and seeing the impact he’s making on people’s lives.

”The best part is my wife though, she loves that every week I come home happy and with stories to tell her…although I will need this photo to show her that I am actually working hard!”

At Solve-TAD, we are always looking for new volunteers to join our team. We are currently seeking bike mechanic volunteers in Sydney who can help us design and develop custom-built bicycles for individuals living with disabilities. Our volunteers have access to some of the latest technologies, including 3D printing and scanning, to help create innovative solutions for our clients.

Joining the Solve-TAD team is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You’ll have the opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team of volunteers, learn new skills, and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. If you’re interested in volunteering with us, visit our website to learn more and apply today. Together, we can help empower individuals living with disabilities to live their best lives.

Search our current Volunteer vacancies here 

TAD acknowledges the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures and to elders past, present and emerging.