Goal:

FPODA is an organization with the purpose to promote independence for those who are disabled, with great focus on those who are wheel chair dependent. FPODA specializes in several areas; Education and or Work assistance, Nursing care, Transportation issues, Medical Equipment needs, non-legal advocacy services and case management services. By combining these areas and placing them together, a well rounded solution can be obtained; as putting together a puzzle.

Tax status:

FPODA is an organization, conquering obstacles. This organization was formed by Helene Thomas, Ibraheem R. Beleal, and Geoffrey L. Gray. FPODA has obtained charity tax exempt status (501c3). For those who would like to donate funds to help FPODA help differently abled individuals, your contribution will be welcomed and TAX DEDUCTIBLE (consult with your accountant or tax preparer).

Background Information:

Helene Thomas, a nurse, became down hearted with the way differently abled people were treated in skilled nursing facilities (nursing home). The ill placement of wheel chair dependent disabled individuals, especially was an eye sore. Many of these people did not need to live in a nursing home. These people were not sick, just in need of some nusing or health care assistance, which could be obtained in their private homes. The individuals that she met were not disabled, but Differently abled; abled differently than those who are able bodied. Ms. Thomas firmly believed that even those who need 24 hour skilled nursing home assistance, should be encouraged and assisted to live within the community so as to provide their contributions and assests to the community. In the winter of 1995 Ms. Thomas was introduced to a young man who was wheel chair and ventilator dependent, who struggled for five years to attend Ohio State University, so as to obtain a college education; but was unsuccessful. Ms. Thomas was able to put together a plan to combine all the key issues of nursing, education, living arrangements, income, transportation, and most importantly funding for a college education. THE PLAN WORKED! This gentleman is currently living in his own apartment and attending OSU at a full- time status of a minimum of twelve credit hours per quarter, with a GPA above a 3.0. This differently abled young man has MD, is wheelchair dependent, ventilator dependent, is with out hand, or arm movement ability or leg movement ability. His name is Robert McNamer, but I call him Success.

This account is just one of many individuals who Helene Thomas and FPODA has assisted in their journey on the road of independence.

FPODA is dedicated to assisting all who want to receive help and more important, all who want to help themselves. FPODA can show the way, but it takes trailblazers to pave the road.