We believe that travel is a powerful form of education, independence, and personal growth. Passports For Ataxians Foundation (PFAF)
Mission Statement
The Passports For Ataxians Foundation empowers people with ataxia—and their caregivers—by reducing financial barriers to obtaining passports and visas. Vision Statement
To create a world where every person with ataxia can explore freely, gaining know
ledge and experiences that enrich their lives, foster cultural understanding, and raise global awareness of ataxia. Objective Statement
Provide financial assistance, resources, and advocacy to help people with ataxia and their caregivers secure essential travel documents in a timely and affordable way. Purpose Statement
The purpose of the Passports For Ataxians Foundation is to empower individuals with ataxia and their caregivers by reducing financial barriers to obtaining passports and visas, promoting travel as a means of education, independence, and global awareness. Expand Access to Travel
Provide financial assistance for passports, visas, and related travel documentation so people with ataxia and their caregivers can participate in life-changing opportunities abroad. This will be done by fundraising and awarding one $400 USD travel-document scholarship each month.
2. Promote Travel as Education
Champion the belief that travel is a form of learning, empowering people with disabilities to gain knowledge, independence, and cultural understanding through global exploration.
3. Raise Awareness of Ataxia
Use travel and storytelling to increase public understanding of ataxia worldwide—reducing stigma, expanding visibility, and building supportive international communities.
4. Build Inclusive Partnerships
Collaborate with embassies, disability organizations, healthcare providers, and travel partners to streamline processes and ensure accessibility at every stage of the travel journey.
5. Advocate for Global Accessibility
Encourage policy changes and community initiatives that make travel more affordable and accessible. Many people with ataxia live on fixed incomes and cannot save for a passport, particularly those outside low-income countries.
