Reporter’s notebook: United Spinal increases connection 

KEW GARDENS, N.Y. – Vincent Piscopo kicked off the United Spinal Association’s 2022 campaign message, “Strong Wheeled Together,” in a recent address on YouTube. 

The campaign will focus on three things: Increasing connection around fitness and athletics and mental health and wellness; and building a platform for achievements.  

“United Spinal is excited to reconnect the tenacity and resilience that makes our community strong,” said Piscopo, president and CEO. “Our 2022 campaign message is built on living strong wheeled together, because when our members and partners join forces, we are unstoppable.” 

United Spinal comprises 58,000 members, 50 chapters and 200 support groups. 

Piscopo said part of what makes United Spinal’s community “Strong Wheeled Together” is connection through personal stories “from every corner and intersection of society.” 

“Together, we erase the stigma of disability, we lift each other up to overcome challenges, we advocate for equal opportunities, and we lead by example and empower others to do the same,” he said. 

Piscopo said United Spinal’s support is expansive and its achievements are many, but the association “needs (members) more than ever” to close the equity gaps that still exist and to help shape future policies. 

“It’s about ensuring we have a say about the development of technology, that we have a seat at the table when policies are created, that we can pursue our dreams and opportunities and receive quality health care, that we can live independently and travel freely, and that we can fully participate in our communities,” he said. 

A Member Awards Event scheduled for Nov. 10 is a good example of United Spinal’s campaign message in action, Piscopo says. The association will spotlight people with spinal cord injuries and disorders and wheelchair users working in business, youth community organizing, the visual and performing arts and athletics, with nominations open to the public. 

“We hope you will join us to continue to advocate for disability justice and to push the boundaries of what’s possible for wheelchair users,” he said.