I would like to personally thank everyone who was able to donate to this fundraiser. For me, the ELeVATE program is a very personal endeavor, and not only because I am a product of it. When I joined the US Army, it was intended to be a career of service – one that was cut short by injury. I saw so many of our brothers and sisters exiting the military under similar conditions back then, and a large portion of them wanted to pursue their educational benefits. Transitioning from a scheduled active-duty role into an unfamiliar post-secondary education landscape can be daunting, especially for those who have not acclimated to the effects of their injuries.

I’m proud to lead the ELeVATE program curriculum here at HERL, where I’ve seen some of the most talented individuals excel and go on into rewarding careers. I’m proud to see my colleagues here and throughout the Pittsburgh area (and beyond) making waves for accessibility and universal design. I’m extremely proud of our student Veterans and the future they’re creating for themselves.

But I think I’m most proud of you, our stakeholders and allies who recognize the need for a program such as ELeVATE. Without your generosity, this program would not be possible. To know that we have this wonderful community of supporters at our side is to realize that, regardless of our backgrounds, we share a vision for a better, more equitable tomorrow.

One Team; One Fight!

-Josh