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.
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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Through 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, Overcome Foundation.
Josie Patricio
Board Member
Josie Patricio is an administrative professional with over 25 years’ experience. With a strong background in organizational support, planning and coordination, she is known for her commitment to operational excellence, coordination and service.
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Josie actively supports and promotes the mission of the Improvise Adapt Overcome Foundation, helping raise awareness for individuals living with mobility impairments. She is passionate about community engagement, service driven initiatives, and amplifying stories that inspire resilience, independence, and purpose. Through her professional work and philanthropic involvement, Josie is dedicated to making a meaningful impact by supporting causes that empower others and strengthen communities.
Val Armstrong
Board Member
Valerie is a registered nurse with over 18 years of experience. Throughout her career, she has been deeply committed to advocacy, education, and compassion.
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Valerie brings prior nonprofit board experience and a strong understanding of governance, collaboration, and mission stewardship. She is passionate about building meaningful community connections and ensuring organizations stay rooted in the real needs of the people they serve.
As a board member of the Improvise Adapt Overcome Foundation, Valerie is honored to contribute her clinical expertise, leadership experience, and commitment to service in support of IAOF’s mission. She is especially inspired by the foundation’s focus on resilience, independence, and peer driven community, and she looks forward to helping drive sustainable growth and lasting impact for individuals facing mobility challenges.
Nick Armstrong
Board Member
Nick is a technology solutions designer with 20 years of experience solving problems.
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Nick is pationate about getting things done, meeting new people, and having fun along the way. As a board member of the Improvise Adapt Overcome Foundation, Nick looks forward to enabling those within and supported by the foundation to achieving their goals.