Posted on August 1, 2025
Breaking Barriers: National Ms. Wheelchair America Returns to Grand Rapids
Women from 20 states across the nation will travel to Grand Rapids this month to showcase how they embody an important mission: advocating for people living with disabilities.
Ms. Wheelchair America highlights advocacy, achievement, communication and presentation. The 54th national competition will select the most accomplished and articulate spokeswoman for persons with disabilities to hold the title of Ms. Wheelchair America 2026.
When: August 18-24, 2025
Where: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe NW
The mission of Ms. Wheelchair America is to provide a public platform for women who use wheelchairs to successfully educate and advocate for the more than 70 million Americans living with disabilities.
For over 50 years, Ms. Wheelchair America has been a powerful platform for women with disabilities to share their voices and drive meaningful change,” said Mary Zendejas, President of Ms. Wheelchair America. “These remarkable women aren’t just competing; they’re demonstrating that disability doesn’t define limits, advocacy does. We’re excited to return to Grand Rapids to celebrate their achievements and amplify their missions.”
Throughout the week, state titleholders will participate in leadership training, advocacy workshops, mentoring events and judging sessions. While contestants come to share their personal platforms, a sisterhood forms throughout the week, resulting in an infectious collaborative spirit.
For the fourth year in a row, Mary Free Bed Guild will partner with Ms. Wheelchair America to sponsor this event. Since 1891, the women of the guild have been devoted to improving quality of life for people with disabilities.
We are so proud to once again collaborate with Ms. Wheelchair America and partner for this year’s event,” said Mary Beth Brown, co-president of the Mary Free Bed Guild. “Each competitor brings such strength and resilience to this competition as well as a desire to create meaningful change in their communities.”
The public is invited to attend speech night on Friday when contestants share their personal journeys and passions. Public attendance is also encouraged for Saturday night’s crowning gala. Both events will take place in the Amway’s Ambassador Ballroom at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10. Both events will be livestreamed on the Mary Free Bed Facebook page.
This event is so much more than a competition,” said Guild co-president Maureen Kozel. “It’s an opportunity to elevate voices, share impactful stories and advocate for people with disabilities across the country.”
