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Jose Morales went to high school at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. In 2009 Jose joined a junior USA Goalball team. Goalball is an adaptive sport for the blind and visually impaired. He is currently coaching youth in Jacksonville and is nationally recognized in the sport.
Jose graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a minor in International Studies. He is currently working at the ILRC as an ADA Manager. "I hope to inspire, empower, and motivate people who face some of the same barriers I come across," Jose joined the team at his CIL in Jacksonville, Florida as an IL Coordinator. In 2018, Jose was promoted to ADA Manager and now combines his knowledge, skill set, and connections to elevate and eliminate barriers to independence. His colleagues have selected him as the agency's "Employee of Excellence" on multiple occasions. Jose serves on the City's Hispanic American Advisory Council, Mayor's Disability Council, and National Federation for the Blind. Jose received Congressional recognition from Congressman Al Lawson. Senators Nelson and Rubio have personally thanked Jose for his community leadership.
Jose actively encourages others to fully access their communities. This year at the National Council for Independent Living, Jose Morales, was chosen as the NICIL Region 4 Advocacy Award recipient. Region 4 represents Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The NCIL Regional Advocacy Award recognizes individuals within each region for outstanding systems advocacy efforts consistent with independent living goals and philosophy at a national, state, or local level. Only one award is given, per region.