A student to life.
philomath (adj): is a lover of learning and studying
“Living with a spinal cord injury transformed my perspective on life. It turned out to be the most impactful experience I’ve ever had, shaping me into the person I am today. I’m deeply thankful for the support I’ve received along this journey, and now I’m committed to offering the same to others. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve received is to “remain a student of life”—always keep learning and applying what you’ve learned. Even when you think you have all the answers, there’s always more to discover. Stay open.”
—
Mia Natalia - T9 Complete SCI
President & CEO
Our Mission
Our mission at Philomath is to empower individuals with spinal cord injuries and those facing financial challenges by providing essential grants. These grants support their return to work, career advancement, and entrepreneurial ventures, ensuring they have the resources to build independent, fulfilling lives.
Vision Statement
Our vision is a world where every person with a spinal cord injury has equal access to the support and resources necessary for optimal health, independence, and quality of life, regardless of their financial situation.
Did you know…
Many people living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) face challenges when it comes to employment due to a variety of physical and societal factors. These reasons include:
1. Physical Limitations
2. Lack of Accessible Workplaces
3. Health-Related Challenges
4. Social and Employer Bias
5. Educational and Skill Barriers
6. Financial Barriers
Before sustaining a spinal cord injury (SCI), about 66% of individuals are employed, but this drops to 12-18% in the first year post-injury, stabilizing around 20-30% after rehabilitation. Severe physical impairments limit job options, and many workplaces lack accessibility due to barriers like inadequate facilities and transportation issues. Ongoing medical challenges, discrimination, and misconceptions further hinder employment opportunities. Retraining and access to vocational rehabilitation are often needed but not always available. Additionally, 30-50% of individuals with SCI live below the poverty line, making it hard to afford necessary resources for job reentry. These factors underscore the significant barriers faced by those with SCI in the workforce.
Philomath Center was established to help people get back their independence after a life-altering injury.