The Power to Move - Film Screening & Q&A

The Power To Move

Community Screening & Panel Discussion

Step into a night of inspiration, outrage, and collective action. We’re not just watching a film—we’re igniting a movement to break the bureaucratic chains that keep mobility equipment out of reach.

Why This Matters

Across the country, people are sidelined—emotionally and physically—by systems that confuse cost with care. The wrong wheelchair can mean missed job interviews, lost playtime with your kids, or simply being stuck inside your own home.

The Power To Move zeroes in on these injustices, revealing how red tape and one-size-fits-all programs stall life-changing innovation. But it doesn’t stop there: this documentary charts the blueprints for a future driven by respect, collaboration, and open-hardware solutions.

What You’ll Experience

• A powerful screening that lays bare the human cost of outdated systems
• A live panel unpacking how community-built solutions bypass red tape
• Prototype demos you can see in use on-site—see how open-hardware turns garages into workshops of dignity
• Action steps to join local build nights, repair clinics, and advocacy campaigns

Join the Movement

Get involved at or email dGhvbWFzIHwgdGhlbWlmICEgb3Jn. Be part of a community that believes respect—not red tape—is the true path to independence. For people with disabilities, for neighbors, for all of us: let’s power a future that moves.

President & Founder

Board Of Directors

Thomas was born in 1983 with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, at a time when the disorder was barely understood. He always advocates for himself and others with disabilities, stating “I do nothing if it doesn’t benefit others.” It was around the year 2015 when he was denied an adequate wheelchair. This was despite coverage by Medicaid and the best private insurance available in NY. A crowdfunded used wheelchair provided by his community was the solution. Having been told he should discard a $65,000 custom wheelchair over a 2 inch part, he knows firsthand why open source mobility equipment is the next step in the industry. It subverts restrictive IP law and enables the right to repair.

Mechanical Engineer

I serve as president and lead engineer at RapAdapt, where my team develops custom adaptive solutions for people with disabilities. I studied Mechanical Engineering Technology at the Rochester Institute of Technology, where I honed my engineering and problem-solving skills. After RIT, I worked in the field as an engineer on a wide range of projects. I hold 2 US patents on wheelchair technology that we have already developed, was born with Cerebral Palsy, and have a passion for engineering and helping others. My disability gives me a unique perspective and approach to problem-solving. I love to use my knowledge and skills to develop products and solutions to help others. I have an in-depth understanding of the challenges that people with disabilities face and the knowledge to help overcome them because I am them.

Also check out other Entertainment events in Oneonta, Business events in Oneonta, Kids events & activities in Oneonta.