Go! Fly! Wheelchairs collects and repairs wheelchairs no longer used in Japan and delivers them, as travelers' hand luggage, to people with disabilities and children in developing countries. It began as a volunteer group in 1998 and gained NPO status in 2000.
Under the motto "from hand to hand, international contribution anyone can make," it aims for a society where everyone can live as themselves, beyond barriers of disability and borders. According to the website, 3,537 wheelchairs have been delivered to 84 countries (as of August 15, 2026).
Its work goes beyond delivery. On the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, maintenance volunteers teach repair skills at the "Wheelchair School." The group also runs a wheelchair rental program, sends lecturers, shares news through a newsletter and e-mail magazine, and holds events such as a Halloween party.
Key points
- A distinctive system of delivering wheelchairs hand to hand in travelers' luggage
- An open "Wheelchair School" that trains maintenance volunteers
- Ongoing country-by-country reports on wheelchairs that have arrived
Why this organization's work stands out
It is distinctive that people traveling or working abroad can become part of the delivery chain. Without any special qualification, they can find a way into international cooperation.
The group links collecting, repairing, carrying and reporting back on each delivery through volunteers and members. According to the website, it has 113 regular members and 211 supporting members (as of May 2024).
Editor's comment
It was exciting to hear that unused wheelchairs ride in travelers' bags to reach someone around the world.
The Wheelchair School schedule and ways to volunteer are on the official website. Please take a look.