About Us
Our Why
Oregon Spinal Cord Injury Connection (OSCI) builds community and creates opportunities for those affected by spinal cord injury (SCI). Indeed, living with SCI means facing lifelong challenges—from managing health to navigating stigma and systemic barriers. Nevertheless, OSCI offers hope. Through resources, peer support, and advocacy, it empowers individuals to thrive—not just survive.
Mission
Our mission is to ensure that everyone who sustains a spinal cord injury not only receives the care they need but also benefits from a supportive community and essential resources—so they can truly thrive.
Vision
Experience the power of change—and as a result, thrive with a spinal cord injury. Moreover, we envision a united, resilient community that has not only faced adversity but has also transformed it into strength, all while striving toward a more inclusive world.
Values
Advocacy – Creating space where others can be known, heard, and ultimately seen.
Collaboration – By building meaningful and strategic partnerships, we strengthen our impact and expand our reach.
Compassion – In creating community, we provide support that helps mend the trauma of spinal cord injury.
Equity – By ensuring that those who are oppressed can thrive, we promote equity and justice.
Innovation – By continuously adapting, we strive to achieve our mission effectively.
Who We Are
Oregon Spinal Cord Injury Connection (OSCI) is a Portland-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded and led by the SCI community. Previously, before its launch in 2015, Oregon lacked dedicated SCI support, which meant individuals faced major challenges alone. Since then, OSCI has grown steadily and now improves lives through resources, community-building, and advocacy.
What We Do
We employ community health workers with spinal cord injuries to help others navigate complex health and social service systems. Additionally, they lead peer support and host events such as meet-ups, workshops, and adaptive activities—thereby ensuring strong, informed, and connected support throughout the SCI community.
Who We Serve
We serve Oregon and SW Washington. Specifically, we support anyone affected by spinal cord injuries—including families, friends, caregivers, and partners. In addition, we also offer consultation services to health care providers.
Equity Statement
Our team and our work are deeply committed to creating attitudinal and systemic changes that actively remove ableism, racism, and other forms of oppression against the disability community. Furthermore, we prioritize those who live at the intersection of multiple marginalizing identities alongside disability.
Our Partners
