Local Philanthropists Donate Mobility Scooters to Veterans in Need
Providing over a decade of mobility for Florida’s Veterans
Orlando, January 21, 2026 – In an inspiring act of generosity, Jack Kump and Joan Wheeler, philanthropists from Ormond Beach, Florida, are transforming the lives of deserving Florida veterans through the donation of 16 mobility scooters to those unable to afford or access one through traditional medical channels.
Florida is home to more than 1.4 million veterans, with nearly 32 percent reporting some level of disability. This donation not only honors their service but also helps address the daily mobility challenges many veterans face.
For more than a decade, Jack and Joan have partnered with The American Legion, Department of Florida, to identify veterans in need. Through this partnership, they have donated a total of 109 life-changing mobility scooters, including this year’s contribution.
Their generosity has inspired even greater support. Through their influence and longstanding commitment to Florida’s veterans, Jack and Joan secured six additional scooters, bringing the total to 22 scooters to be awarded to deserving veterans. The additional scooters were made possible with support from SpinLife, McLaren of Orlando, Pride Mobility Products Corporation, and the couple’s personal financial advisor, John Downey.
“Without the military’s influence, discipline, and esprit de corps, my life would have likely taken a much less productive path,” said Jack Kump. “This is our way of giving back to those who served.”
Their commitment is deeply personal. This initiative honors two World War II veterans who profoundly shaped their lives: Joan Wheeler’s late father, Robert I. Wheeler, and Jack Kump’s late mentor, Leonard F. Wedge.
During last year’s distribution event, Jack Kump and Joan Wheeler announced their long-term commitment to this cause, sharing that they have made arrangements to ensure the mobility scooter program will continue well into the future through their estate.
The scooters will be presented during a special distribution ceremony hosted by The American Legion, Department of Florida, at its headquarters in Orlando. Mr. Kump and Ms. Wheeler will attend the event to personally meet the veterans and witness the impact of their generosity.
Among last year’s recipients was Nelson Perez, a U.S. Army veteran honorably discharged due to a permanent disability. Upon learning he had been selected, Perez shared, “I’m incredibly grateful to receive this scooter. You don’t know how much this means to me. It will truly change my life!”
Building on the success of this program, SpinLife, a leading national retailer of mobility and medical equipment for more than 25 years, has expanded its involvement after witnessing the direct impact these scooters have on veterans’ daily lives. During this year’s event, SpinLife representatives will make a special announcement regarding their increased level of support for The American Legion, Department of Florida, further reinforcing their commitment to veterans and communities in need.
“The generosity shown by Jack and Joan exemplifies the gratitude our veterans deserve,” said Bruce Comer, Adjutant of The American Legion, Department of Florida. “Their compassion and continued support make a lasting difference in the lives of Florida’s veterans.”
About SpinLife
SpinLife, a division of Numotion, is the nation’s leading provider of mobility products and services, empowering individuals with personal independence and improved quality of life. SpinLife is proud to support initiatives like this, which make a meaningful difference in communities across the country.
