Winona Lake, Indiana – College senior Mason Metzger, 22, needs the community’s help in raising $45,000 to purchase a wheelchair-accessible van to gain more independence after graduating from Indiana Wesleyan University this spring.
At one year of age, doctors diagnosed Mason with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, a neurological condition resulting in muscle stiffness and impaired mobility. He is classified as a person with quadriplegia and requires assistance with activities related to daily life.
Today, despite what he calls “specialized challenges,” Mason has become an award-winning keynote motivational speaker, accessibility advocate and change agent. He recently received his driver’s permit, and this wheelchair-accessible vehicle is a key step in helping Mason drive to speaking engagements, engage in community activities, attend medical treatments and achieve his goal of increasing independence.
Recently, Mason sought the assistance of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) to explore the possibility of driving. VRS will cover a large portion of the conversion cost and hand controls; however, Mason is responsible for covering the cost of the vehicle itself.
“I have never let my limitations dictate my reality,” said Mason. “I launched this fundraising campaign because I do not have the personal financial resources to cover the cost. Prior to launch, I searched for grants to cover the vehicle portion. To my surprise, resources for this purpose were extremely limited to the best of my knowledge.”
To donate to the campaign, visit Mason’s Mobility Van Fund (GoFundMe). For additional information, visit Mason Metzger’s website or send him an email at Mason@masonmetzger.com.
ABOUT MASON METZGER
Mason Metzger is an award-winning keynote motivational speaker, accessibility advocate and change agent from Warsaw, Indiana. In April 2022, he will graduate from Indiana Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in organizational leadership.
At one year of age, doctors diagnosed Mason with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, a neurological condition resulting in muscle stiffness and impaired mobility. He is classified as a person with quadriplegia and requires assistance with activities related to daily life.
Since 2014, Mason has been pursuing his childhood dream, serving as a keynote motivational speaker and accessibility advocate. Mason is developing an expertise in Universal Design, which applies to various industries, such as education, healthcare and business. Universal Design exists to make the world accessible to everyone in the first place, with only minor adaptations in the future.
Mason has presented more than 70 talks to various audiences, including educational institutions, churches, youth events and corporate gatherings. In January 2017, Mason spoke on the Indiana House of Representatives floor after a resolution was adopted in his honor, recognizing his strength and courage.
Mason has served as a member of the board of directors for Forte Residential Inc. and Forte Home Health Care Inc. since April 2018. In February 2019, Mason received an international award from the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) in the category of self-advocacy.
Mason is a digital ambassador for the Riley Children’s Foundation. In January 2021, Mason began serving on the Indiana Assistive Technology Act (INDATA) Project Advisory Council at Easter Seals Crossroads. The goal of the INDATA Project is to educate communities on the importance of assistive technology and other topics that impact individuals with disabilities throughout Indiana.
After completing his undergraduate studies in April 2022, Mason plans to either pursue a Master of Healthcare Administration or full-time employment. Mason hopes to continue his speaking and consulting career while also finding a role that allows him to use his skills and knowledge to help others. This will likely involve Mason starting or joining a thriving business in the northern Indiana area.
While working toward obtaining his driver’s license, Mason is writing a book that he hopes to self-publish as part of his five-year plan. The working title is “Specialized Challenge”—A Journey Toward Contentment.
“Each day, I strive to work in tandem with the people God places in my path. Together, we can navigate what I have coined life’s “specialized challenges.” We all have them, and yes, one of mine is cerebral palsy. It is my mission to equip, engage and empower people by developing authentic connections and setting a positive example.”
Mason Metzger graduated from Warsaw Community High School in June 2017.
