Joel has big plans and a quiet dedication. Permanently disabled from a traumatic brain injury and raising four children with his wife, Joel has experienced many challenges in pursuing his college degree. But he kept at it, beginning at a community college in 2010, where he earned his Associates Degree before transferring to a four year college. At this juncture, Joel realized that his untreated brain injury was going to impede his progress and he would only be able to handle one or two classes per semester. Subsequently, the COVID outbreak and the demands of his family life caused him to take a break from his studies. Now, finally in a position to finish his degree, Joel faced another obstacle: no computer. He reached out to SALUTE, INC. for help and received a new laptop & keyboard. Armed with his new equipment, Joel enrolled in a university program and started new classes. His projected graduation date is Spring, 2026 – 16 years after he started working towards his college degree.
“I hope to utilize my degree to continue my service somewhere in the nonprofit space. I have personally been the beneficiary of some amazing organizations which have deeply inspired me to serve the next generation. Currently, I serve as a coach for the local middle school and club team. Finishing this degree will help me to practice what I preach: FINSH STRONG.” Spc. Joel, US Army (retired)