Joe was born in Santa Cruz Ca. and moved to Southern Humboldt County, Ca at a young age. When Joe was 2 years old he nearly drowned, and his younger years it was obvious to his family that something was not right as he lost his ability speak and around age 12 he could no longer walk. At around this same time he was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease and therefore required a specialized wheelchair to support his severe spinal deformity. Joe lived at home with his family until they age 27, around this time it was clear that his family needed more support to care for Joe so he moved into a local supported living agency called Dawnings where he continued to thrive today.  Because of Joe disability he is unable to provide for himself and financially relies solely on his SSI income. Joe requires transportation that can accommodate his wheelchair, he must stay in his wheelchair during commutes due to special fitting back support. Joe loves getting outside and enjoying nature, listening to live music in the park, local art shows, and the zoo. Because Joe relies on Dial-a-Ride all trips must be plans weeks in advance and this makes it really difficult to set up outings, especially spur of the moment trips to see a movie! Dial-a Ride also closes early in the evenings so Joe is limited on what he can do during the day time hours.