Over the past 16 years as Summit’s Ravalli County coordinator, Joanne Verwolf has done so much to expand services for people with disabilities in the Bitterroot Valley. She has helped hundreds of people improve their lives through assisting them with their Social Security or SSI benefits, accessing community services, and sharing information for adaptive equipment and a host of other resources.
Joanne was instrumental in getting the Bitterroot Bus up and running, which helps everyone in need of transportation get around locally and into Missoula. She worked with other agencies to educate the public about disability issues, and advocated for improved accessibility in local businesses, public facilities and outdoor recreation sites.
Joanne also co-developed the Caregiver Conference in Hamilton, which helps personal assistants find ways to make their job easier and shows them how much they are needed and appreciated. She was an advocate for people with disabilities locally and at the state capitol.
While we are sad to lose such an invaluable person, we all wish her luck and hope she enjoys her well-deserved retirement!
