Steve Baskis, Outtasight paddler is having an accessible home built by Home for the Troops!

“Army Specialist Steven Baskis lost his sight after he was wounded in the War in Iraq. But he hasn’t let his disability stop him from enjoying the adventure of a lifetime.

“I always said to family and friends and strangers growing up that I wanted to see the world and travel the world,” Baskis said.

You can see that Steven Baskis has turned dreams into reality. But the sight of him moving around with a white cane is also a reality.”

Read the Full story Here: 

http://www.nbc11news.com/content/news/Blind-vet-not-letting-injury-impair-his-sense-of-adventure-468383973.html

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.