“I used to ski with Michigan Adaptive Sports and play baseball with the Miracle League,” Josh said. “I currently play wheelchair floor hockey with the Wheelchair Hockey League in Fraser. Outside of being able to participate in a competitive environment, I have been able to meet tons of great people and make friendships with many of them.”
Roughly 10 years ago, Josh began receiving targeted case management services, fiscal intermediary services, and Community Living Supports (CLS).
“Easterseals MORC has helped provide the resources I need,” Josh said. “The support has allowed me to live my life the way I want to and also pursue my personal and professional goals.”
Marie Sievert, IDD Care Coordinator at Easterseals MORC, has worked with Josh for many years to make sure his care needs are met. She shared that she has seen Josh make great progress working to achieve his goals.
“Josh now lives independently with his support staff,” Marie said. “He is employed, manages his care team, and has been involved in various advocacy efforts to ensure that the care of individuals with special needs is met.”
Josh explained that Marie has made the biggest impact on his journey to make sure he has the necessary support to be successful and live life on his terms.
“Last year, I almost lost my services and support,” Josh said. "Marie was quick to assist, making sure I didn't lose any services. She is always a great help to make sure everything I need is set up in line.”
Josh has gotten involved in various advocacy efforts to help others experiencing similar challenges to ensure they are able to be as successful as they have the ability to be.
"When I was at Michigan State University (MSU), I was part of the Students with Disabilities Resource club," Josh said. "We worked to make sure things were accessible on campus for students with disabilities and helped them navigate campus life."
During his time at MSU, Josh had the opportunity to spend a semester in Washington DC doing an internship at the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission where he worked on public policies to promote inclusive workplaces and ensure equal opportunities for people with disabilities to obtain and maintain employment.
He also recently won the 2026 Easterseals MORC Abilities Champion Award for his advocacy efforts and dedication to helping other individuals with disabilities. shared gratitude for how advocacy and guidance from others has helped ensure his needs are met and reach closer to achieving his goals.
“So many people have helped to ensure my needs are met and I continually get closer to achieving my goals," Josh said. "I'm extremely grateful for the support but also for the opportunity to help others in similar situations."
