New Partnership Expands Access to Free Mobility Equipment in Bradenton

Inspired by a Sister: How a Personal Journey Sparked a Community-Wide Mission for Mobility

For Sophia Sharypov, the challenge of accessing mobility equipment wasn’t an abstract issue—it was a reality she witnessed daily in the life of her twin sister, Maria, who was born with cerebral palsy. Seeing firsthand how financial barriers could limit independence and recovery, Sophia was inspired to take action. That action grew into Bridge Abilities, a program dedicated to ensuring no one is held back by their income or insurance status.

Today, that personal mission is becoming a community-wide solution. In a significant local partnership, Sophia’s organization, Big Dreams Through Small Steps, has teamed up with Goodwill Manasota to dramatically expand the reach and impact of the Bridge Abilities program across the region.

What is the Bridge Abilities Program?

Bridge Abilities is the community initiative born from Sophia’s personal experience. Its model is simple yet powerful:

1. Collect: The program gathers gently-used medical equipment like wheelchairs, walkers, and shower chairs from the community.

2. Refurbish: All items are checked and refurbished to ensure they are safe and functional.

3. Redistribute: This equipment is provided free of charge to individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions who cannot afford it.

The program operates on a core belief: everyone deserves access to the tools they need for independence and recovery.

A Powerful Partnership for Greater Good

While the Bridge Abilities program has always had a powerful driving force, the new partnership with Goodwill Manasota provides the operational strength to amplify its impact. Goodwill, an industry-leading nonprofit dedicated to “Changing Lives through the Power of Work,” is lending its extensive logistics network and community presence to the cause.

This collaboration means:

• Easier Donations: You can now drop off gently-used equipment at any Goodwill Manasota donation site.

• Increased Capacity: Goodwill’s infrastructure will help manage a larger inventory, allowing the program to serve more people.

• Broader Outreach: Together, the two organizations can ensure everyone who needs help in the region knows where to find it.

How You Can Be a Part of the Solution

This initiative is powered by community support. Here’s how you can help continue the mission that started with one sister’s love for another:

If You Have Equipment to Donate:
Give your gently-used mobility aids a second life. You can donate items like wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, and other essential assistive devices. Simply drop them off at any Goodwill Manasota donation center.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Equipment:
If financial hardship is creating a barrier to obtaining necessary medical equipment, Bridge Abilities is here to help. Visit the Big Dreams Through Small Steps website to submit a request. The team works to match individuals with available resources.

Leadership United by a Common Mission

The leaders of both organizations expressed a shared vision for this partnership, echoing the community-centric spirit Sophia started with.

“Together, our two organizations aim to enhance the quality of life for individuals throughout the region by ensuring they have access to the necessary tools for mobility, rehabilitation, and daily living,” said Misty Ritch, Founder and President of Big Dreams Through Small Steps. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for all.”

“Goodwill has a long and proud history of lowering barriers and increasing critical access for those with disabilities and other challenging conditions,” added Donn Githens, President & CEO of Goodwill Manasota. “We are looking forward to working with Big Dreams Through Small Steps to help those in need to enjoy increased mobility and better health.”

Join This Community Effort

This partnership is a powerful next chapter in a story that began with personal experience. It’s a fusion of heartfelt mission and logistical capability, all directed toward a single goal: building a more accessible and supportive community for everyone.

Please help us spread the word! Share this article to connect these vital resources with the people who need them.

• Learn more about Big Dreams Through Small Steps: bigdreamsthroughsmallsteps.org