
Joe Gonzalez
Executive Director
Gonzalez brings a uniquely nomadic perspective to marine conservation and healing. A Disabled Navy veteran, avid diver since the mid-80s, and with 20 years of experience in the global channel IT space, he has established the Mother Ocean Fund (MOF), following a series of physical tragedies revealing ocean immersion's therapeutic potential. Drawing from his corporate experience, he launched the Aquatic Tribe (AT), a marketplace app that brings the whole world of scuba diving to the palm of your hand (www.aquatictribe.com). As MOF's largest corporate donor, AT fulfills his pledge of creating a self-sustained foundation. This blend of philanthropy and capitalism for a cause has helped pave the way for many disabled veterans, women, and children to heal while also sponsoring varied ecological restoration initiatives that help "get more fins in the water" to expand marine restoration/clean-up efforts at sea. His vision unites environmental conservation with humanitarian principles, creating transformation for both participants and marine ecosystems the world over.​