Our Story
Crusty Crab Diving was founded on the belief that the underwater world should be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical or mental challenges. Established as a nonprofit organization, it aims to provide adaptive scuba programs that promote physical and mental health, foster community healing, and create inclusive diving experiences. Through specialized training and support, Crusty Crab Diving opens the door to the therapeutic and adventurous benefits of scuba diving for individuals with diverse abilities.
Meet our Board:
Josh Daley – Co-Founder & Visionary Behind Crusty Crab Diving
Josh Daley discovered scuba diving while stationed in Hawaii, where it quickly became a powerful source of therapeutic release between deployments as an Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician. After retiring from the military with 20 years of service—and living with a 100% total and permanent disability—Josh turned to diving not only as a profession, becoming a certified scuba instructor, but as a lifeline. Beneath the surface, he found relief from both chronic pain and the invisible wounds of war. Driven by a deep desire to share this healing experience with others, especially fellow veterans and individuals with disabilities, Josh partnered with lifelong PADI professional and Course Director Todd Yarbrough and his Operation Enduring Freedom teammate and Purple Heart recipient Sheldon Shockley to create Crusty Crab Diving. Together, they transformed a personal passion into a nonprofit mission of recovery, empowerment, and community through adaptive scuba therapy.
Todd Yarbrough – Co-Founder & Training Director
With over two decades of experience as a PADI professional and Course Director, Todd Yarbrough has dedicated his life to the instruction, mentorship, and empowerment of divers from all walks of life. His passion for adaptive scuba training was sparked early in his career, where he recognized the ocean’s unique power to heal both body and mind. Todd’s deep knowledge of diver safety, curriculum development, and instructor training made him an essential partner in launching Crusty Crab Diving. As a co-founder, he leads the nonprofit’s training standards, ensuring that every dive—especially those involving adaptive divers—is guided by compassion, professionalism, and inclusion. Todd brings not only technical excellence to the team but an unwavering belief that anyone, regardless of physical or mental challenges, can experience freedom underwater.
Sheldon Shockley – Co-Founder & Veteran Advocate
Sheldon Shockley served alongside Josh Daley during Operation Enduring Freedom, where he earned the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat. His own journey through trauma, recovery, and resilience gave him a deep appreciation for the therapeutic effects of scuba diving—both mentally and physically. After witnessing firsthand how water could quiet the noise of daily struggle, Sheldon became a driving force behind Crusty Crab Diving’s mission. With his background in veteran outreach and a fierce commitment to those who’ve served, he helped shape the nonprofit into a place of connection, healing, and purpose. Sheldon’s voice remains central in ensuring Crusty Crab Diving honors its roots in veteran support while expanding its impact to all individuals living with disabilities.
