Make an
impact today

Called and Chosen Respite is a twice monthly program held at partnering churches in Ashland, OH. At respite, children and adults with special needs (and their siblings) are paired with one-on-one buddy volunteers. They can play, do crafts, ride a golf-cart, and eat dinner, all while forming connections with other children and volunteers. Meanwhile, their parents get a well-deserved break. Some of our parents use respite to rest and sleep, some use it as a date night, others do chores and errands.

Please view “Respite Cost Breakdown” by scrolling down, past FAQs.

Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom experience for people with special needs, ages 14 and older. Donations are used to purchase decorations, volunteer t-shirts and lanyards, gift baskets for participants, food and drinks, karaoke machines, lights, music, DJs, and the cost of our venue, limos, photographers, and more!

Joni and Friends Family Retreat is an accessible summer camp made especially for families with disabilities. Each year, thanks to generous donors, we send several of our families and volunteers to camp. At camp, our families get experience what it is like to go to a summer camp, hear the word of Christ, form bonds with other special needs families, and have lots and lots of fun.

The cost of Family Retreat for a single individual is $550. We aim to send as many families and volunteers as possible.

During the summers, we hold several picnics and park nights for our families. To do so, we purchase snacks and drinks, toys like scooters, bubbles, and balls, and other equipment like pop-up tents and camping chairs.

Secondly, we support our families when they experience medical emergencies, hospital stays, or surgeries. We do this by providing meals and transportation. Your donation will help us purchase food and gas.

Thirdly, we provide educational trainings about disabilities, church ministry, and behaviors for volunteers in our own ministry as well as in other organizations. We do these trainings multiple times a year. Your donations make these trainings free for our volunteers.