.jpg)
ABOUT US
The vision for the Joy Project started when it became clear that there are limited opportunities for social engagement & connections for those with cognitive impairments ages 15+. Due to the lack of programs for this age group, the responsibility falls directly to the parents/caregivers to fill time outside of school. We want to fill the gap where school services end and isolation begins by providing meaningful opportunities to learn, grow and connect. The Joy Project exists to enable people with different abilities & their families to create a JOY-filled life through family support and community connection.
COMMUNITY
Our goal is to create a comfortable and safe environment where people with different abilities can develop friendships, interact with others and find community. We want to fill the gap where services end and isolation begins by providing meaningful opportunities to learn, grow and connect to others.
PARENT/CAREGIVER SUPPORT
The role of parents and caregivers is key in meeting the needs of individuals with cognitive disabilities. This role comes with many challenges. Our goal is to support caregivers with resources that they need through education, support groups and respite opportunities.
We exist to enable people with different abilities and their families to create a JOY-filled life through family support and community connection.
"I felt a strong call to create something because we’ve personally experienced the challenges our two sons, Ben (22) and Jacob (20), who both have autism, face. Our hope is to provide resources for both individuals with disabilities and their families to create a JOY-filled life while navigating the challenges of life with a disability. We are eager to see where God leads us in this adventure and pray it blesses our community."
- Melanie Bonenfant, Founder of The Joy Project of SWMI