called Realistic Approach to Transportation for the Handicapped and Elderly (RATHE). “Handicapped and Elderly” were the key words in those days for requesting financial assistance from the Federal government for transportation needs within the County. One Of our Congressman, Bill Chapel, worked with us to get the assistance. This was designed to meet the requirements of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and it was in operation by 1980. HAVOC was working for accessibility 10 years before the signing of. the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990, which was to become effective January 26, 1992.

An interesting and fun moment in our history was the decorating of a VOTRAN Handi-Wheels bus for the 1978 Holly Hill’s Christmas Parade, in front of one of our members home.

HAVOC’s first newsletter was in May 1991, it’s purpose was to provide items of interest and notice of future events.

In 1993 the paratransit system was renamed the “GOLD” system. Now, both the fixed route and the paratransit “GOLD” buses are fully equipped with lifts as well as the four new trolleys, effective January 2002, which are now also wheelchair accessible.

The ADA had been written into law because of the failure of the nation to respond to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This created a wealth of opportunities for HAVOC. To that end, HAVOC established an Accessibility Committee composed of members who were visually, hearing, and mobility impaired to check on accessibility. HAVOC completed many building evaluations at the request of the County, as well as local businesses, including parks, beach access, the Strickland shooting range, schools, the international airport, the new transfer plaza for VOTRAN, and nursing homes. We were also requested to do evaluations of streetscapes for several municipalities. A written