National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is a non-profit trade association of more than 600 mobility equipment dealers, manufacturers, driver rehabilitation specialists and other professionals dedicated to improving transportation options for people with physical disabilities. These members work together to modify vehicles with mobility equipment (hand controls, wheelchair ramps and lifts, etc.) to meet an individuals’ specific physical needs.
History
NMEDA was founded in 1989 as a trade association of mobility equipment dealers that modify vehicles for consumers with physical disabilities. Since then, the association has expanded its memberships to manufacturers and driver rehabilitation specialists in the United States and Canada. To help consumers differentiate between safe and unreliable vehicles, the association has established programs, such as the Quality Assurance Program and Compliance Review Program, which gives recognition to members and non-members that meet specific standards.
Quality Assurance Program
Mobility equipment dealers are individuals who operate vehicle modification shops or mobility equipment dealerships. NMEDA dealers are required to earn and maintain Quality Assurance Program (QAP) accreditation, the only recognized accreditation program for the mobility equipment industry. It was designed by NMEDA to ensure that all vehicle conversions meet specific quality and safety standards beyond what is required by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Annual NMEDA Conference
Each year, NMEDA hosts an annual conference showcasing the newest products and mobility equipment available for people with disabilities. At the 22nd Annual NMEDA Conference in Phoenix, NMEDA declared May as National Mobility Awareness Month, as also designated in the Congressional Record by the U.S. House of Representatives.
National Mobility Awareness Month
The purpose of National Mobility Awareness Month is to show that people with disabilities can live an active, mobile lifestyle. After gaining the partnership of Chrysler, Toyota, SanTan Honda, BraunAbility and Vantage Mobility International, NMEDA established an online contest in search for Local Heroes who are struggling with or overcoming mobility challenges. These caregivers, veterans and people with disabilities were encouraged to share their stories on the Mobility Awareness Month website detailing how they are an inspiration to their communities. After 1,700 submissions and over 1.2 million votes in its inaugural celebration, NMEDA awarded three wheelchair accessible vehicles customized to meet the specific mobility needs of the winning families.

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