Madeline Robinson founded Wheelchairs 4 Kids, in 2011, when she saw a gap in the system that was not being filled.
HOW DO YOU CONTINUE TO EVOLVE AND GROW AS A LEADER?
I believe I have become a better listener and have become braver in my choices, and decisions. I do believe that anything is possible if we put our mind to it. We proved that last year when we took 18 kids (each with a parent or guardian) skiing in Colorado. We never believed we would be able to do something like that. That trip proved that with the support of the community, the possibilities are endless.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST LESSON IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY?
I believe I have learned many lessons, but I think the most important is to treat your team with respect and value their work. I previously worked for another organization that had a change in management. It was amazing to see how quickly everything changed when there was a lack of trust and respect. I lasted six months under the new leadership.
It is important to take time and care when hiring. Every new team member must be trustworthy and a team player. Not everyone has to be friends, or have the same work style, but they do need to respect each other and be kind.