Today we’d like to introduce you to Kari-Ann Melendez.
Hi Kari-Ann, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a disabled Navy veteran and a retired Air Traffic Controller who has navigated being a minority in challenging career fields, I’ve faced barriers first-hand. Those experiences, along with a natural curiosity about what’s possible have instilled in me a determination to find ways over/under obstacles rather than be stopped by them. This mindset inspired conversations with other like-minded Scuba divers and subsequently led to establishing the Adapt-Able Foundation. We are a 100% volunteer, veteran founded, 501c3 nonprofit comprised of Scuba divers and other compassionate volunteers. This amazing team has brought this vision to life! Together we’ve built adaptive Scuba and adventure programs that remove barriers, build confidence, and give individuals with disabilities the freedom to explore, not only the underwater world, but their own potential! Every dive and experience reflects what a dedicated team can accomplish when driven by purpose.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building truly inclusive programs means challenging long-standing assumptions while navigating funding, logistics, and access. COVID amplified those challenges, especially when pools were closed and finding facilities willing to host adaptive dive events felt nearly impossible. But we didn’t pause – we adapted. Those obstacles sharpened our creativity, strengthened our partnerships, and proved that when access matters, barriers don’t get the final say.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Adapt-Able, our work centers on creating inclusive Scuba and adventure experiences with long term impact for individuals with disabilities and their families. Rather than training “adaptive divers,”we adapt Scuba itself – training Scuba divers and professionals to meet people where they are and tailor each experience to the individual. We specialize in thoughtful, person centered approaches that prioritize safety, dignity, and confidence.
We’re known for programs like our Y.E.S. (Youth Experiencing Scuba) Camp, which introduces young people with disabilities to independence, ocean stewardship, and conservation at a pivotal age, and for strong partnerships with veteran advocates supporting wounded and disabled veterans and those that never had an opportunity to become a veteran. What I’m most proud of is the ripple effect of our work: divers who carry inclusive practices forward, participants who gain lasting confidence, and a growing community where access becomes the standard. What sets us apart is our commitment to education and sustainable inclusion that extends far beyond a single dive.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I see the Scuba and adventure industry becoming far more inclusive and adaptive by design rather than by exception. There’s a growing recognition that accessibility isn’t a niche – it’s a responsibility. Scuba isn’t just a sport; it’s a physical, mental, and spiritual adventure. For individuals with physical challenges, or who use wheelchairs, the buoyancy of the water can provide pain relief, freedom of movement, and a sense of liberation that few other activities can offer. For individuals with cognitive challenge this is a sport that many can excel in with a similar effect of a weighted blanket and reduced environmental distractions.
We’ll continue to see shifts toward universal design in training, equipment, and facilities, making experiences welcoming for people of all abilities from the start. More instructors, dive professionals and divers will be trained to understand diverse needs and adapt experiences safely and confidently. Technology and adaptive tools will open even more possibilities. The next decade will bring stronger collaborations across veterans’ services, youth programs, accessibility advocates, and the diverse industry, ensuring inclusion is standard, not optional. The focus is moving from “Can we include them?” to “How do we ensure everyone can dive?” – and that’s an exciting evolution.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://adapt-ablefoundation.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adaptablefoundation/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adaptablefoundation
