The Wheelchair Foundation is proud to recognize and celebrate Gary Dworkin for his years of dedicated service to the District 6960 Wheelchair Foundation Committee and for the extraordinary impact he has helped make in the lives of people around the world.
In the May 2026 Rotary District 6960 Newsletter, Gary’s retirement from the District 6960 Wheelchair Foundation Committee was announced, marking the close of an important chapter in his Rotary service. Gary was appointed to the District Wheelchair Committee by Neil Snyder in May 2022 and served diligently as Co-Chair alongside Jim Fabry. Both Gary and Jim are members of the Bonita Naples Rotary Club. Gary officially retired from the District Committee in April 2026.
District 6960 has been a valued partner of the Wheelchair Foundation for many years. In July 2008, the district designated the Wheelchair Foundation as one of its District committees. Since then, District 6960 has raised more than $1.4 million to provide 14,400 wheelchairs to individuals in the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Central America. These wheelchairs have not only provided mobility to individuals in need, but have also positively impacted the lives of their families, caregivers, and communities.
Gary’s leadership helped continue this legacy of service. Through his commitment, compassion, and belief in Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self,” he has helped bring dignity, independence, and hope to people who may otherwise have been left without mobility. His work reflects the very heart of the Wheelchair Foundation’s mission: delivering hope, mobility, and freedom to those who need it most.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Gary’s wife, Lin, for her support and service alongside him. Together, Gary and Lin have made a meaningful difference for individuals locally and internationally, helping advance a mission that reaches far beyond any one club, district, or country.
As Gary steps back from his role on the District Committee, we join Rotary District 6960 in thanking him for his dedication, leadership, and years of service. His contributions to the Wheelchair Foundation, to Rotary, and to disabled people throughout the world will continue to be felt for years to come.
We are also grateful to Chris Riesen of the Bonita Springs Rotary Club, who has agreed to continue this important work as the new Co-Chair of the District 6960 Wheelchair Foundation Committee. We look forward to continuing this partnership with Rotary District 6960 and building on the incredible foundation of service that leaders like Gary have helped create.
Thank you, Gary, for your service, your leadership, and your lasting impact.