Joyful Journeys began as a personal mission born from our family’s story. Our two boys, Jack and Eli, were both diagnosed with autism at just two years old, and because they are nonverbal, we quickly learned how critical early intervention and consistent support can be. Like many parents, we immediately started searching for the right educational setting—one that could provide specialized services while also honoring our family’s values. But here in our area, we found very few options or resources for special education and even fewer that were faith-based. We knew our children deserved more than limited choices, and we believed other local families were facing the same struggle. Through prayers and many meetings with our pastor and the leadership team of Church of the Cross, we quickly realized there was an opportunity for a partnership to provide special education to an often-underserved population.  Over time, what started as a need became a vision: a place where children with autism could receive evidence-based support within a nurturing, faith-centered environment. That vision eventually became our Foundation called Joyful Journeys, and through an incredible partnership with Cross Schools, we are grateful to share that this year we launched a pilot program—Joyful Journeys, a faith-based ABA clinic within the school. It’s the beginning of something we’ve dreamt about for a long time: providing meaningful opportunities for children to grow, learn, and thrive while being surrounded by encouragement, dignity, and hope.

As we’ve walked this journey, we have been continually reminded that we are not doing it alone. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our community at Colleton River for the love, kindness, and support you have shown our family. We are truly humbled by the way Colleton River has embraced Jack and Eli as part of the membership.  From the smallest everyday moments to the biggest milestones, you have gone above and beyond to embrace our children with acceptance and care. Profound autism can sometimes feel isolating for families, but you have made us feel seen, supported, and strengthened. You’ve celebrated our boys for who they are, and you’ve helped create an environment where they are welcomed—not just included but truly loved. We are beyond grateful for the compassionate gestures, the warm smiles, the patience, and the genuine friendships that have made our neighborhood feel like a safe place for our children to simply be themselves. Thank you, Colleton River, for being the kind of community that lifts others up and chooses love again and again.

Joyful Journeys is still growing, and we invite anyone who feels called to be part of this mission to join us. Whether you’re passionate about supporting children with autism, helping expand special education resources, or simply want to encourage families walking a similar path, your involvement makes a difference. Donations can be made directly at joyfuljourneyskids.org, and every contribution helps us continue to build programs, resources, and opportunities for children and families in need. We also encourage you to follow along on social media to stay updated on our progress, celebrate milestones with us, and share in the moments of joy that inspire our work. We are deeply thankful for the support we’ve received so far, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. Joyful Journeys exists because our boys changed our lives—and because we believe every child deserves the chance to thrive in a community filled with purpose, compassion, and hope.