<script type="text/javascript">
var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www.");
document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E"));
</script>
<script type="text/javascript">
try {
var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-15348058-2");
pageTracker._trackPageview();
} catch(err) {}</script>

In 1996, Enabled Traveler’s founder Jonathan Robinson was in a car accident that left him unable to walk for two years. This experience changed Jon’s life and inspired him to develop a company that was solely dedicated to helping the disabled community.

Conversations that took place during his physical rehabilitation sessions moved Jon to brainstorm how he could help others. He understood the challenge “differently-abled” persons face when traveling and felt a need to demonstrate to others that – regardless of individual abilities – they had options. Furthermore, he wanted them to understand that there were people, places, and businesses that would welcome their patronage. That’s when Enabled Traveler was conceived. 

Everyday, Jon is reminded why he is putting all of his energies into Enabled Traveler. “Seeing someone trying in a wheelchair, trying to navigate through busy downtown traffic – seeing someone with a disability trying to get through the security check point at an airport…  All of these things make me want to succeed. Even in this world where money and resources are, so called, hard to find, I believe we need to do more for the handicapped community.”

One of Jon’s most memorable stories comes from a couple he met while giving a presentation at the Brain Injury Association in Ann Arbor. “During that meeting I met a husband and wife that I will never forget. The husband had been in an accident only a mile or so from his house.  That accident was so horrendous that the gentleman received a severe brain injury.  The injury caused doctors to tell his wife that he would not be able to do anything by himself again. However, their story really demonstrates the power of love – His wife refused to believe this.  She stuck by his side, and worked with him. Her work ended up bringing him back to the point where he was able to recite this story along with her! He is also able to help dress himself, remember that he needs to take certain medications, and to even fight occasionally with his wife! But believe me, they said this gentleman would do NOTHING in his life again, but the power of love helped bring him back from that type of existence.  This is one of the reasons why I have to exist.  This woman was obviously tired.  She said she would love to take a vacation.  If Enabled Traveler had the resources, I would have sent them on a vacation right there on the spot!”

Click here to Meet the Enabled Traveler Team