By
Alycia O'Dell

Impactful Ninja is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more Learn more .

Affiliate Disclosure

Hey fellow impactful ninja ?

You may have noticed that Impactful Ninja is all about providing helpful information to make a positive impact on the world and society. And that we love to link back to where we found all the information for each of our posts.

• Most of these links are informational-based for you to check out their primary sources with one click.

• But some of these links are so-called "affiliate links" to products that we recommend.

Why do we add these product links?

First and foremost, because we believe that they add value to you. For example, when we wrote a post about the environmental impact of long showers, we came across an EPA recommendation to use WaterSense showerheads. So we linked to where you can find them. Or, for many of our posts, we also link to our favorite books on that topic so that you can get a much more holistic overview than one single blog post could provide.

And when there is an affiliate program for these products, we sign up for it. For example, as Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

What do these affiliate links mean for you?

1. First, and most importantly, we still only recommend products that we believe add value for you.

2. When you buy something through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a small commission - but at no additional costs to you.

3. And when you buy something through a link that is not an affiliate link, we won’t receive any commission but we’ll still be happy to have helped you.

What do these affiliate links mean for us?

1. When we find products that we believe add value to you and the seller has an affiliate program, we sign up for it.

2. When you buy something through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra costs to you).

3. And at this point in time, all money is reinvested in sharing the most helpful content with you. This includes all operating costs for running this site and the content creation itself.

What does this mean for me personally?

You may have noticed by the way Impactful Ninja is operated that money is not the driving factor behind it. It is a passion project of mine and I love to share helpful information with you to make a positive impact on the world and society. However, it's a project in that I invest a lot of time and also quite some money.

Eventually, my dream is to one day turn this passion project into my full-time job and provide even more helpful information. But that's still a long time to go.

Stay impactful,

In the US alone, roughly 302,000 people are currently living with a spinal cord injury, with about 18,000 new cases reported each year. The impact of these injuries can be devastating, from chronic pain and limited mobility, to paralysis and loss of sensation. Moreover, people with spinal cord injuries often face reduced independence, leading to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Fortunately, organizations are working to advance scientific understanding of spinal cord injuries and provide support to those impacted. So we had to ask: What are the best charities for people with spinal cord injuries?

The best charities for people with spinal cord injuries are the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and the United Spinal Association. Charities such as Wings for Life and the Barrow Neurological Institute focus on research to improve outcomes for people impacted by spinal cord injury.

Whether you want to advocate for policies that promote inclusion and equity, fund research into finding a cure for spinal cord injury, or offset the cost of adaptive equipment, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities for people with spinal cord injuries are all about, how they work, and what your best way would be to contribute.

Here’s What All the Best Charities for People With Spinal Cord Injuries Have in Common

The charities on this list were chosen based on their mission, impact, transparency ratings, and achievements.

They operate primarily throughout the US and Canada, but some serve people with spinal cord injuries internationally.

Many of these charities focus on funding research to better understand and treat spinal cord injuries, while others work to improve the current quality of patient care. Some cater to specific populations like veterans, athletes, and children. Others look to alleviate the pain of anyone suffering a spinal cord injury.

Some of the charities below focus on providing support to those impacted by spinal cord injury as they navigate the healthcare system, while others focus on advocacy and policy change.

Yet, they all share the same goal of helping people with spinal cord injuries.

These Are the 9 Best Charities for People With Spinal Cord Injuries in 2025

Below are our favorite charities for people with spinal cord injuries (you can click on their link to directly jump to their section in this article):

(At the end of this article we’ll also share our six-step approach on how you can select the best charity to support.)

Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Advancing Quality of Life for Those with Paralysis

The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Today’s care. Tomorrow’s cure.”

Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation

The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation is committed to finding cures and treatments for paralysis through research and providing a range of support services for those living with spinal cord injuries. For example, their National Paralysis Resource Center offers comprehensive resources and services, including information on treatment, rehabilitation, and daily living assistance for individuals with paralysis and their families. The foundation also runs several support programs, such as peer mentoring, educational webinars, and support groups, designed to enhance quality of life and promote independence. Additionally, the foundation raises awareness and advocates for increased research funding and policy changes to improve care and accessibility for people with spinal cord injuries.

Since their founding, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation has made significant strides in both research and support services for people with spinal cord injuries. For example, they have invested over $140 million in groundbreaking research, including research into gene therapy to promote axon regrowth and the use of brain-computer interfaces and neurotechnology. Furthermore, their National Paralysis Resource Center’s Information Specialists have assisted more than 125,000 patients and caregivers in navigating the spinal cord injury journey. And, in 2024 they partnered with 4 other leading spinal cord injury organizations to launch SCI Venture, a new venture philanthropy vehicle dedicated to funding and commercializing innovative treatments for spinal cord injury. 

You can support the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation by donating through their website. Additionally, you can contribute by participating in their fundraising events, volunteering, or joining their advocacy efforts. 

United Spinal Association: Empowerment Over Spinal Cord Injury

The United Spinal Association holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.

“To empower and advocate for people with SCI/D and all wheelchair users to achieve their highest quality of life.”

United Spinal Association

The United Spinal Association supports individuals with spinal cord injuries through a comprehensive approach that addresses their multifaceted challenges. For example, they provide critical resources such as information on adaptive equipment, healthcare resources, and legal rights through their Spinal Cord Injury Resource Center. As another example, they foster a supportive community through their Peer Support Programs, which connect people with peers facing similar challenges, encouraging mutual emotional support and practical advice. Moreover, they provide advocacy training and support to equip individuals and their families with the tools and knowledge to effectively self-advocate.

Since their founding, the United Spinal Association has been a driving force in improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders. For example, in 2022 alone, their programs impacted the lives of more than 1.8 million people with disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries. In the same year, they facilitated access to adaptive equipment for over 1,000 people, enhancing mobility, independence, and quality of life. And, their membership magazine New Mobility reaches almost 100,000 people each month.

You can donate directly to the United Spinal Association through their website. Additionally, you can contribute by participating in fundraising events or advocating for legislative changes that benefit individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Wings for Life: Funding Research to Cure Spinal Cord Injuries

Wings for Life holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Bronze Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Together, we will cure spinal cord injuries.”

Wings for Life

Wings for Life works to cure spinal cord injuries and improve quality of life for those suffering from spinal cord injuries by funding novel research and providing vital support services. For example, they fund groundbreaking research to advance scientific knowledge of spinal cord injuries and ultimately find a cure, including research into spinal cord regeneration, neuroprotection, and rehabilitation. Furthermore, they collaborate with leading medical institutions around the world to support clinical trials that translate laboratory findings into potential treatments. Additionally, Wings for Life raises awareness of spinal cord injuries and the importance of research through educational campaigns and public outreach. For example, their annual Wings for Life World Run unites thousands of participants in the name of spinal cord injury research, with 100% of proceeds going directly to research.

Since their founding, Wings for Life has raised millions of dollars for spinal cord injury research, funding almost 300 projects across 20 countries. For example, in 2022 alone, they invested over $15 million in research, funding 74 ongoing research projects in 13 countries. In the same year, they initiated 12 new clinical trials, enrolling 500 participants. And, their Wings for Life World Run has raised $40.5 million to date, all of which has gone directly to funding research projects.

You can donate to Wings for Life via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by participating in the Wings for Life World Run or creating a fundraiser.

Barrow Neurological Foundation: Research, Patient Care, and Education for Healthier Brains

The Barrow Neurological Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“With Barrow, there is reason to believe.”

Barrow Neurological Foundation

The Barrow Neurological Institute Foundation supports people with neurological and spinal cord disorders and injuries by funding pioneering research programs, enhancing patient care, and educating future neurologists. For example, the Sonntag Spine Center focuses on developing innovative treatments and rehabilitation methods to improve the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders. Additionally, their research initiatives explore cutting-edge technologies and therapies, such as robotic spine surgery and spinal immobilization, to advance recovery and mobility for patients. The foundation also supports comprehensive care models that integrate physical, occupational, and psychological therapies tailored to the unique needs of spinal cord injury patients.

Since their founding, the Barrow Neurological Foundation has changed the lives of millions of people living with brain and spinal injuries through direct treatment, research, and education. For example, in 2023 alone, they treated over 58,000 individual patients and performed more than 5,800 surgeries, including more than 3,000 spine surgeries. In the same year, they elevated the field of neuroscience through 724 clinical trials and research studies and published more than 200 articles in scientific journals. 

You can donate to the Barrow Neurological Foundation via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by launching your own fundraiser or attending an event.

Paralyzed Veterans of America: Advocacy and Support for Veterans with Spinal Cord Injuries

Paralyzed Veterans of America holds a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“For over 75 years, PVA has been a support system for our nation’s paralyzed and disabled heroes.”

Paralyzed Veterans of America

Paralyzed Veterans of America works to ensure that veterans with spinal cord injuries have the support necessary to regain their independence and freedom. For example, they provide free legal representation to veterans seeking benefits and healthcare from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and they collaborate with VA hospitals to ensure that veterans receive specialized care and rehabilitation services. As another example, they fund cutting-edge research aimed at finding new treatments and improving care for spinal cord injuries. Moreover, their Sports and Recreation program offers over 60 free, year-round adaptive sports and recreational opportunities, allowing veterans with spinal cord injuries to remain socially and physically active. 

Since their founding, Paralyzed Veterans of America has made significant strides in advocating for and supporting veterans with spinal cord injuries. For example, in 2023 alone, their National Service Officers filed over 23,000 claims and appeals, securing more than $230. 5 million in new annual and retroactive payments to veterans and their families. And, in the same year, they provided almost 400 opportunities for veterans to participate in sports and recreation events, garnering over 2,300 participants across the US. Moreover, the organization was instrumental in the development and passage of the Veterans Auto and Education Improvement Act, which helps veterans maintain safe and accessible vehicles.

You can donate to Paralyzed Veterans of America via their website. You can also get involved by volunteering, or advocating for disability rights and policies.

National Council on Independent Living: Independent Living is Fundamental

The National Council on Independent Living holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“NCIL envisions a world in which people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully.”

National Council on Independent Living

The National Council on Independent Living supports their members, including organizations supporting those with spinal cord injuries, by building their capacity to promote social change, eliminate discrimination, and create opportunities. For example, their Provider Accessibility Initiative and Barrier Removal Fund allow healthcare providers to improve their physical and programmatic accessibility for people with disabilities, with local members actively participating in applicant reviews. As another example, they provide resources members can use to advance their missions, like the Disability Pride Toolkit and Resource Guide and the Environmental Health Barriers Toolkit. Moreover, they advocate for policies that promote autonomy for people with disabilities, like spinal cord injuries.

Since their founding, the National Council on Independent Living has become the longest-running, cross-disability, grassroots organization run by and for people with disabilities, including spinal cord injuries. For example, their Barrier Removal Fund has awarded over $2 million in grants to fund accessibility improvements at healthcare providers in 14 states since it was introduced in 2018. And, in 2023, they launched their 5 for 5 Campaign, asking Congress for $500 million to support Independent Living Services.

You can donate to the National Council on Independent Living via their website. You can also support the organization by purchasing branded merchandise or joining their advocacy efforts.

High Fives Foundation: Helping Injured Athletes Recover and Thrive

The High Fives Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“In partnership with healthcare, we provide human care.”

High Fives Foundation

The High Fives Foundation supports injured athletes, including those with spinal cord injuries, as they recover and return to the sport they love. For example, their Empowerment Fund provides grants to support the recovery and rehabilitation of injured athletes, covering the cost of adaptive sports equipment, medical treatment, and rehabilitation programs. As another example, they provide direct support and rehabilitation services at their CR Johnson Healing Center, including physical therapy, mental health counseling, and personal training. And, the organization provides opportunities for adaptive sports events, including skiing, snowboarding, fishing, surfing, and mountain biking.

Since their founding, the High Fives Foundation has helped hundreds of athletes, including those with spinal cord injuries, overcome their injuries and return to sports as independently as possible. For example, they have disbursed over $10 million across more than 1,400 grants and empowered more than 500 individuals through their adaptive sports programs. As another example, their CR Johnson Healing Center has provided over 35,000 recovery sessions since its inception in 2010.

You can donate to the High Fives Foundation via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by attending an adaptive sports event or purchasing merchandise from their shop.

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Maximizing Independence by Maximizing Mobility

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“We are dedicated to keeping people moving!”

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children recycle home medical equipment for adults and children with disabilities, including spinal cord injuries, so they can live with dignity, autonomy, and independence, regardless of financial status. For example, they collect and refurbish equipment like wheelchairs and scooters to increase mobility, and tools like shower supports and Hoyer lifts to maximize independent self-care and provide them to those in need. Moreover, they repair damaged or malfunctioning equipment, install adaptive lifts on vehicles, and provide refurbished computers and other assistive technology– all at little to no cost.

Since their inception, Friends of Disabled Adults and Children has provided $250 million in medical equipment for people with disabilities internationally. They also keep 350 tons of recycled goods out of landfills annually through their recycling process. Furthermore, they responded to COVID-19 relief efforts by providing nearly $4 million in related medical equipment to hospitals in their home state of Georgia. They have also expanded their reach globally by donating to countries such as Venezuela, Kenya, Moldova, and Colombia. 

You can donate to Friends of Disabled Adults and Children via their websites. You can also support the charity by hosting an equipment drive, sponsoring an event, or volunteering.

Easterseals: Enhancing Quality of Life for Disabled Adults 

Easterseals holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and the Silver Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“All abilities. Limitless Possibilities.”

Easterseals

Easterseals provides a wide variety of programs to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities, including those impacted by spinal cord injury. For example, they offer specialized rehabilitation services designed to maximize independence and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and hearing therapy. They also provide access to assistive technology and adaptive equipment, empowering individuals with spinal cord injuries to overcome physical barriers and enhance their mobility and daily living activities. Moreover, they work with employers and industry leaders to create meaningful job opportunities and provide Workforce Development Services to employees with disabilities.

Each year, Easterseals helps more than 1.5 million people with disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries. For example, their Workforce Development Services assists over 35,000 people annually, including job hunting, training, and transportation. Moreover, Easterseals was a leading advocate for the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination based on a disability.

You can donate to Easterseals via their website. You can also contribute by registering to participate in a Walk With Me event, or by volunteering with an Easterseals near you.

How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?

The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities for people with spinal cord injuries. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.

• Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarize yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
• Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission. 
• Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
• Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing a charity’s progress in reaching its targets, the chances are they’re not making a substantial positive change.
• Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
• Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place. 

How Can You Best Support These Charities?

After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you. 

Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:

• Donate money. You can find donation pages on the websites of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
• Buy their official merchandise. Charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
• Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
• Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
• Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.

Final Thoughts

Now it is up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to people with spinal cord injuries—based on the causes that matter most to you.

Stay impactful,

PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:

Sources

• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Paralysis in the US
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Home
• Wikipedia: Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
• Charity Navigator: Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
• GuideStar: Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Paralysis Help
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Get Support
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Advocate for Change
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Our Approach to Research
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Information Specialists
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Sci Ventures
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Donate
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Events
• Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation: Volunteering
• United Spinal Association: Home
• Charity Navigator: United Spinal Association
• United Spinal Association: Spinal Cord Resources
• United Spinal Association: Peer Support
• United Spinal Association: Advocacy
• United Spinal Association: 2022 Annual Report
• United Spinal Association: Donate
• United Spinal Association: Fundraising Events
• Wings for Life: Home
• Charity Navigator: Wings for Life
• GuideStar: Wings for Life
• Wings for Life: Research
• Wings for Life: Wings for Life World Run
• Wings for Life: About Us
• Wings for Life: Red Bull: Run 10-year Anniversary
• Wings for Life: Donate
• Wings for Life: Fundraise
• Wings for Life World Run: Home
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Home
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Institute
• Charity Navigator: Barrow Neurological Foundation
• GuideStar: Barrow Neurological Foundation
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Sonnetag Spine Center
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Spinal Program Stewardship
• Barrow Neurological Institute: Neurorehabilitation
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Spine Research
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: 2023 Impact Report
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Donate
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Fundraise
• Barrow Neurological Foundation: Events
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Home
• Charity Navigator: Paralyzed Veterans of America
• GuideStar: Paralyzed Veterans of America
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Veterans Benefits
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Research Foundation
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Adaptive Sports and Recreation
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: National Service Officers
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: 2023 Annual Report
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Donate
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Volunteer
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Advocate
• National Council on Independent Living: Home
• National Council on Independent Living: About
• Charity Navigator: National Council on Independent Living
• GuideStar: National Council on Independent Living
• National Council on Independent Living: Provider Accessibility Initiative and Barrier Removal Fund
• National Council on Independent Living: Disability Pride Toolkit and Resource Guide
• National Council on Independent Living: Environmental Health Barriers
• National Council on Independent Living: Advocacy Monitor
• National Council on Independent Living: Provider Accessibility Initiative
• National Council on Independent Living: 5 for 5 Campaign
• National Council on Independent Living: Donate
• National Council on Independent Living: Merchandise
• High Fives Foundation: Home
• Charity Navigator: High Fives Foundation
• GuideStar: High Fives Foundation
• High Fives Foundation: Empowerment Fund
• High Fives Foundation: CR Johnson Healing Center
• High Fives Foundation: Events
• High Fives Foundation: Donate
• High Fives Foundation: Shop
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Home
• Charity Navigator: Friends of Disabled Adults and Children
• GuideStar: Friends of Disabled Adults and Children
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Medical Equipment
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Equipment Repair
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Vehicle Lifts
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Other Resources
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: 2021 Annual Report
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Donate
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Host an Equipment Drive
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Sponsor an Event
• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children: Volunteer
• Easterseals: Home
• Charity Navigator: Easterseals
• GuideStar: Easterseals
• YouTube: Easterseals Disability Pride Month Campaign
• Easterseals: Adult Day Services
• Easterseals: Senior Community Service Employment Program
• Easterseals: In-Home Services
• Easterseals: Impact Snapshot
• Easterseals: Walk with me
• Easterseals: History
• Easterseals: Ways to Give
• Easterseals: Connect Locally