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 With
the encouragement of my three sons several years ago, I formed an
Internet website as a means to express capabilities from a wheelchair.
My background with photojournalism unfolded with
experiences of traveling using a wheelchair, and later enabled me to
initiate an organization known as Wheel Me On.
The organization encourages growth across America for people with
disabilities using wheelchairs.
I am a person who enjoys traveling and
photography, and avidly engage in activities supporting people with
disabilities for the benefit of unity in society. In my search for on
hand experience, I discovered need for greater accessibility in many
areas. Photo description: Julia Hollenbeck, October 5th, 2002,
after earning the title of Ms. Wheelchair Tennessee 2003. |
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traveling for a number of years, I also realized few women are seen in
public using wheelchairs. In recent months, I became involved with the
need to help stop poverty in America through AmeriCorps*VISTA and today,
serve as the Coordinator providing research for a proposed Center for
Independent Living of Northern Middle Tennessee. My analysis of the
statistics in a six-county area proved the number of women using
mobility aides is staggering. |
Photo description: Julia Hollenbeck prior to participation in the "Queen City Road Race, Wheelchair Division" in Clarksville, Tennessee, sponsored by Wheel Me On.
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It is my belief, in order to obtain
accessibility for people using wheelchairs for mobility, wheelers must
be seen in the public’s eye, otherwise society may view us as a very
small minority unable to function in society. Consequently, many places
may not believe it is necessary to comply with laws set in place for
people using wheelchairs as a daily means of mobility.Earning the title of Ms. Wheelchair
Tennessee 2003 provided opportunities to pursue my goal of creating
visibility. I enjoy sharing my experiences with others and giving
presentations, encouraging women to set aside inhibitions and move
forward. |
| My work with AmeriCorps*VISTA continues with the proposed Center for Independent Living of Northern Middle Tennessee, and Wheel Me On keeps wheeling on the Internet. Recently, I became an auxiliary member of American Legion Post 88 to the delight of two of my sons, who are presently serving our country as the third generation in my family. My three sons are relentless in encouraging my commitment to turn disability into capability. They are correct.
Julia Hollenbeck |
Photo description: The annual Christmas parade in Clarksville, Tennessee.
Julia Hollenbeck was sponsored to ride in the parade as Ms. Wheelchair Tennessee 2003 by Robert Young, Colonel (ret.) US
Army. |
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United States Armed Forces Day Parade
Chattanooga, Tennessee
May 9th, 2003 |
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Photo description: One of Julia Hollenbeck's most treasured memories is Mayor Bob Corker of the City of Chattanooga making it a point to visit her, on Armed Forces Day following the parade.
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It has to be stated that only strong will, determination, and steadfast support of the Chattanooga's Area Veteran Council in Chattanooga, Tennessee, could pull off a fantastic parade such as the one held for Armed Forces Day amid earlier days of rain, flooded streets, accidents, and confusion. The Honored Military Branch of Service was the United States Coast Guard at this year's 54th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade. Petty Officer Musgraves, of the United States Coast Guard Shore Side Support Detachment in Chattanooga invited me to attend the event as the Titleholder of Ms. Wheelchair Tennessee 2003. I was privileged to sit in the Reviewing Stand with dignitaries of the city and military officials from across the state while enjoying better than a bird's eye view.
Julia Hollenbeck
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