About
The Improvise Adapt Overcome Foundation exists to empower anyone with mobility disabilities to live lives of resilience, independence, and purpose. We connect individuals to information, organizations, and technologies that can transform lives, ensuring that no one facing mobility challenges feels alone or without hope. Our guiding belief is that you are not defined by what happens to you, but by how you respond. Since you can control your response, you can control your result. We honor the human spirit and strive to create a future where independence and resilience are accessible to all.
Mission Statement
The Improvise Adapt Overcome Foundation exists to empower veterans and civilians with mobility disabilities to live lives of resilience, independence, and purpose. By sharing real-life examples of overcoming adversity and connecting individuals to organizations, grants, and technologies that can change their lives, we bring hope, guidance, and practical support to those who need it most.
IAOF Leadership Team
John Patricio
Chairman & President, Founding Member
John is a former Marine who learned to face adversity with determination both on and off the battlefield.
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After serving in Desert Storm, his greatest challenges emerged in civilian life as he battled a debilitating illness and endured life-changing surgeries. Refusing to give in, he redefined his purpose and found strength through resilience, perseverance, and personal growth. With honesty and insight, John shares how he transformed hardship into hope, offering a powerful testament to the human spirit. His story inspires others to overcome their own struggles and keep moving forward.
Carol Hoge
Vice President & Founding Board Member
Carol Hoge brings a dynamic and accomplished background in organizational development, leadership, and strategic growth to the Improvise Adapt Overcome Foundation.
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With a Master of Arts in Organizational Management and advanced certifications in Business Process Management, Lean Management, Agile Methodologies, SCRUM, and Six Sigma (Master Black Belt), Carol has built a career focused on driving efficiency, innovation, and human connection within organizations.
Her hallmark is her ability to represent the voice of the customer—listening deeply, understanding needs, and transforming insights into meaningful outcomes. Carol’s leadership philosophy centers on cultivating collaborative cultures that inspire teams to excel and create lasting impact.
At IAOF, Carol leverages her strategic planning, process design, and relationship-building expertise to help the foundation grow with purpose, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that every initiative reflects the organization’s core mission of empowering people with mobility challenges to live with resilience, independence, and hope.
Mandy Luna
Secretary & Founding Board Member
Mandy is a registered nurse with 22 years of experience, and she also had the privilege of serving as an Air Force veteran.
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Throughout her career, she has developed a strong commitment to serving others and a dedication to assisting those in need. She is looking forward to continuing to contribute and make a positive impact through the Improvise, Adapt and Overcome Foundation.