About Us
The Carl Edward Foundation exists to close the gap between what individuals living with spinal cord injuries or progressive neurological diseases need and what insurance and systems often fail to provide.
We accept applications for grants on a rolling basis, helping individuals and families offset the cost of mobility equipment, home modifications, fall prevention devices, and caregiver support that insurance does not cover.
This work is deeply personal, and it’s just getting started.
This foundation was born out of love for my uncle Carl and for every patient I’ve walked alongside in my work as a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Carl was more than family; he was my role model. He let me play in his bright green racing wheelchair when I was a kid. He loaded his own chair into his car while standing in leg braces. He lived with resilience, pride, and independence despite the limitations spinal cord injury tried to impose.
But I also watched him face the parts no one talks about, the fights with insurance, the waitlists, the financial pressure of equipment that wasn’t covered. I saw how delayed care and denied resources chipped away at his freedom.
The Carl Edward Foundation is here, so fewer families have to face what we did.
Our Mission
We are on a mission to restore dignity and preserve independence for individuals living with spinal cord injuries and progressive neurological diseases by bridging the funding gaps that traditional systems leave behind.
We don’t believe a grab bar or a ramp should be out of reach. We don’t believe a caregiver should have to burn out before support arrives. We believe every person deserves the tools to live as fully and freely as possible.
Our work is grounded in five guiding values that reflect both Carl’s legacy and the heart of the communities we serve:
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Dignity: Every person deserves to feel seen, valued, and respected.
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Freedom: Access to care and equipment opens doors to movement, choice, and possibility.
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Equity: We serve all people, from all walks of life, regardless of race, gender, income, identity, or background.
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Legacy: We honor those who came before us by creating something better for those who come next.
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Compassion in Action: We lead with empathy, but we don’t stop there. We act.
Founder and President
Dr. Corey Winn is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with over a 15 years of experience specializing in spinal cord injury and neurological rehabilitation. Her work is shaped by clinical knowledge and by her lived experience as a family member, caregiver, and advocate.
The Carl Edward Foundation is her answer to the gaps she saw over and over again in the system: the denials, the delays, the people who fell through the cracks. It’s a commitment to change what’s possible, one grant, one home, one family at a time.
Co-Founder and
Vice President
Peter Winn, MPT, is a concierge physical therapist, healthcare executive, and spine specialist 30 years of experience delivering and leading high-quality care. As one of the only McKenzie Certified MDT therapists in the Colorado Springs region, he brings advanced expertise in the evaluation and treatment of spinal and musculoskeletal conditions.
Throughout his career, Peter has not only treated thousands of patients but has also led, trained, and developed teams of clinicians across multiple healthcare systems.
A father, husband, and outdoorsman, Peter is driven by a deep commitment to service—empowering patients to move better, live fully, and take control of their health.
Board Members
Jil Goebel,
Marketing and Outreach
Specialist (2025)
Jil is an advertising account executive with Beacon Senior News, a monthly senior magazine that also publishes an annual resource guide. Prior to that, she sold adaptive clothing designed for individuals with limited mobility, which is when she discovered her passion lies with the senior community, as well as individuals with disabilities.
She is a seasoned professional in marketing, public relations and communications. She earned her MBA and BBA from the University of San Diego and is a long-time Colorado Springs resident. Jil loves meeting, helping and connecting people.
She volunteers with numerous nonprofits and is a community ambassador for Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. When she's not working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Craig Johnson
Treasurer (2026)
Craig Johnson is a compassionate community advocate, entrepreneur, and leader
whose work has consistently focused on service, human connection, and helping others navigate life’s most difficult transitions. As a real estate professional, he earned a reputation for guiding individuals and families through major life decisions with integrity, empathy, and trust. His ability to build meaningful relationships and provide steady leadership has made him a respected presence in both business and community settings.
Beyond his professional career, Craig has been actively involved in mission-driven
initiatives that support healing, resilience, and community engagement. Through his
work with the Lockwood Foundation and Voices of Grief, he has contributed to
compassionate outreach efforts that serve individuals and families experiencing loss,
hardship, and personal challenges. His commitment to advocacy and service reflects a deep belief in the importance of connection, support, and giving back to the community.
Known for combining practical leadership with genuine care for people, Craig brings a unique perspective that bridges business experience, nonprofit involvement, and community impact. His longstanding dedication to ethical leadership, relationship-
building, and meaningful service makes him a valuable addition to the Board of the Carl Edward Foundation as it continues advancing its mission of support, service, and positive social impact.
Nick Pearce
Head Coach of the
Denver Barbarians
Wheelchair Rugby Team,
Board Member (2026)
Nick Pearce is a dedicated leader in the adaptive sports and nonprofit community whose work is shaped by his own catastrophic injury. After sustaining a spinal cord injury that changed the course of his life, Nick found purpose and identity through adaptive athletics, an experience that now fuels his mission to create those same opportunities for others.
He serves as a proud board member of the The Carl Edward Foundation and Vice Chair of the Funk Foundation, helping advance initiatives that promote independence, access, and dignity for individuals with disabilities.
As the founder and head coach of the Denver Barbarians Wheelchair Rugby Team, Nick has built a nationally competitive program rooted in resilience, camaraderie, and community first, empowering athletes to rediscover confidence, purpose, and belonging through the sport of wheelchair rugby.
Nicholas Engle,
Board Member (2026)
Nicholas is the founder of The Law Office of Nicholas Engle in Colorado Springs, where he helps individuals and families navigate estate planning, probate, and family law matters. A veteran and former U.S. Air Force officer, Nick brings a service-minded approach to his work and a strong commitment to helping people protect their families, preserve dignity, and plan for the future with confidence.
Through his legal practice, Nick regularly works with clients during important and often difficult life transitions, helping them make clear decisions about their families, assets, and long-term security. He is proud to support The Carl Edward Foundation’s work helping individuals access the support they need to remain safe, independent, and connected to their communities.
This Is Just the Beginning
One year ago, The Carl Edward Foundation was just a vision rooted in love, advocacy, and lived experience.
Today, we are building a growing movement centered around dignity, accessibility, independence, and real support for families facing life-changing neurological diagnoses.
And this is only the beginning.
With your partnership, we will continue reaching more families, funding more critical care and equipment, and creating lasting impact in communities across the country.