Today we’d like to introduce you to Dale Dykema.
Hi Dale, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Mobility Worldwide West Michigan began in 2008 as the 13th affiliate shop of Mobility Worldwide International. Each shop is its own 501(c)3 non profit raising its own funds and staffed by retiree volunteers. MWWM and MWI produce 3 wheeled, hand-cranked carts for leg handicapped people in rural developing countries. At MWWM we produce the small cart for children. Other shops make the adult version. I am a retired Ob-Gyn and in 2009 I met Al Kindig, one of the founders of MWWM. My hobby is woodworking and I saw him and his shop next door to a garage sale we were visiting. MWWM was about to begin production and I became one of the shop supervisors. Production began at 5 carts weekly. We currently produce 15 carts weekly which are packed partially assembled and then shipped to various countries where recipient organizations distribute the carts to those in need of mobility. MWWM has been a major part of my retirement. My wife, Cathy, and I have visited Guatemala, India twice, Kenya, Nepal, and Vietnam (I am a Vietnam vet.) to participate in distribution of carts. In the past I spent 12 years on the MWI board and currently am on the board of MWWM.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
MWWM was blessed with very talented volunteers. One founder supplied knowledge of setting up a non-profit, another was a very talented engineer who devised jigs and fixtures assuring quality work by less technically sophisticated volunteers. We had retired pastors and others who presented the MWWM story to churches and organizations such a Lions clubs.
Fundraising is a constant challenge and income is the limiting factor on our production capabilities.
We continue to be blessed with a diverse group of volunteers who bring expertise in engineering, welding and metal work, woodworking, and office functions.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School, spent a year in Vietnam as a battalion surgeon with the Marines, and trained in OB-Gyn at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. I practiced in Holland from 1973 to 2008. I am proud to have spent 35 years of Monday afternoons at the family planning clinic of Ottawa County. I was the founder of OB Gyn Associates of Holland.
At MWWM, we have 2 supervisors for each day we work. I have shared Tuesday supervisory duties with Gary Wallace since 2009. We are responsible for serving the volunteers with training, equipment, and solving day to day problems. Early on, I emphasized the importance of our coffee breaks where volunteers share about the mission and work of MWWM and their own fascinating lives.
MWWM is a unique non-profit in that we are actually a manufacturing facility.
We are blessed by the support of many local industries. In kind donations of material and services are a major boost to our mission. I can list close to 10 local firms who donate services or give us much reduced rates. Most do not seek recognition for their contribution but value being part of our mission.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Starting a nonprofit is a challenge. Start with enthusiasm for the mission. Share that enthusiasm widely. Challenge people to use their expertise in the endeavor. Create an environment of community that encourages relationships among the volunteers. Never stop enthusiastically sharing your mission with everyone you meet.
Pricing:
- We give the carts away into developing countries
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mobilityworldwidewm.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mobilityworldwidewestmichigan
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ENYtmALdS/
