Joe Mornini

Grand Canyon Outtasight Safety Boater

About Joe

I began kayaking at the age of 30 and have been boating now for over 35 years! (you do the math)…Two goals:
1.  To become a solid intermediate paddler!
2.  Wherever there is water where people are paddling, we always see a wheelchair sitting empty by the water, or a visually disabled paddler being guided on the water!!
 
FAVORITE PART OF KAYAKING
Kayaking or paddling of any kind, connects me to adventure; to  great people of all ages and backgrounds; and to the Great Spirit ….rivers are my home.

Joe's thought about the trip!

No one emerges from the Canyon the same as they went in…hoping the veterans and volunteers on the trip energize the adaptive paddling world nationwide with the success of this Outtasight Wilderness Trip!!

Vanessa Jones

Committe Co-Chair

Vanessa A. Jones is a dynamic force dedicated to fostering
inclusivity, encouraging discussion, and promoting a culture of
belonging in the outdoor sports community. Hailing from
Washington, DC, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences and
perspectives to her endeavors.
As a US Army veteran and ordained Chaplain with a focus on
seniors and caretakers, Vanessa is deeply committed to serving
others. Her work as a patient-caretaker advocate reflects her
passion for supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring their
voices are heard.
Currently, Vanessa is employed by a resettlement agency, where
she confronts challenges head-on with resilience and
compassion. As a single, Black woman veteran, she embraces
the unique hurdles she faces, viewing them as opportunities for
growth and empowerment.
In her downtime, she wears many hats, including that of a
missionary, spreading hope and positivity wherever she goes.
Weekends are spent paddling, immersing herself in West African
dance and finding solace and joy in nature’s embrace.
Vanessa is committed to equitable principles, ensuring that
everyone’s opinions are valued and heard. Through her
unwavering dedication and inclusive leadership, Vanessa is
paving the way for a more equitable and diverse outdoor sports
landscape.