Ride with Joseph

Help make Joseph Cornelius's custom-built bike trailer a reality! 

Joseph is a distinguished member of the San Luis Obispo community. He was born with spastic quadriplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy. He cannot walk and cannot talk, so he is dependent on equipment to live his dream.  One of Joseph's favorite activities is experiencing motion.  Whether it be out for an afternoon run in his jogger or the thrill of a triathlon event; Joseph is all about motion and having a breeze in his face! Team Joseph is what allows Joseph to compete in and experience triathlon events. Led by his father, John Cornelius, Team Joseph is a dedicated group of individuals who share the passion of staying active and bringing joy into Joseph's life. 


Students from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo have taken on the challenge of designing and building a custom-built bike trailer for Joseph. The student team is comprised of three senior mechanical engineering undergraduates: Keely Thompson, Curtis Wathne, and Ryan Meinhardt. This project not only makes a beneficial impact on Joseph; it brings people together and brings awareness to what might seem impossible for others to do. This project also provides the opportunity for Cal Poly students to give back to the community.  


This custom-built bike trailer will allow Joseph to experience more bike rides and participate in triathlon events. Funds raised through this GoFundMe will go directly towards the materials and services required to make the bike trailer for Joseph and his team. Materials like steel and hardware, along with services for custom upholstery and a paint job, are necessary to deliver a complete trailer. Any remaining funds will go to the Cornelius family to get Joseph and Team Joseph signed up for future triathlons. 

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Joseph, Team Joseph, and the three Cal Poly students aiming to complete this project. Feel free to share this GoFundMe page and anything you are willing to donate towards this project is appreciated.