Doug Cox’s journey from inmate to entrepreneur was, to say the least, littered with challenges.
Cox, a resident of Aspen Terrace — an affordable housing complex in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood — is in advanced patent discussions for an interactive toy he invented that mimics the sounds of dinosaurs, military devices, superheroes, and more.
The 68-year-old says it wouldn’t have been possible without Pioneer Human Services, the nonprofit that manages the seven-story, 89-unit complex. Pioneer provided him with classes and resources he needed to pursue his entrepreneurial journey.
Helping hand. Doug Cox credits Pioneer Human Services with giving him the tools to thrive. Photography by John Vicory
Most important, it gave him an affordable place to live. He pays just $1,300 per month, an amount he can easily afford on Social Security and other small sources of income. He’s even able to save a little money…