The Birth of MPA

Thomas L. Lunardini was a native of Jackson, MS, born on October 10, 1962.  Tom was a C-3 quadriplegic.  He was injured in a car accident in 1982 while a freshman at Hinds Junior College.  After his injury, he continued his education at Belhaven and Millsaps colleges.  Tom saw that there was a great need for financial assistance for the paralyzed citizens of Mississippi.  So, together with Daryel Dunaway, John Lee II, and Michael. H. Grace, the Mississippi Paralysis Association (MPA) was born.  MPA was incorporated on April 13, 1983.  Tom was the recipient of the WLBT Spirit of Mississippi and Graduate of Leadership Jackson awards.  He was as generous in death as he was in life.  His donated organs gave six people the gift of life.

Today's MPA

Today, the Mississippi Paralysis Association is governed by a Board of Directors, all of whom are living with a paralysis.  Because of their disabilities, the Board of Directors feel they can directly relate to the trials faced by people living with paralysis.

The MPA Board of Directors meets at least quarterly to review applications for assistance.  Our offices are located at 1225 Sunset Drive in Grenada, MS.  This location also houses our bingo hall called "Bingo World".  The majority of MPA's funding is generated through Bingo World.

MPA's funds are dedicated to assisting others.  Very little of our revenue is spent on administrative costs.  We believe our obligation is to our consumers and that is where the majority of our funding should be spent.