Ella Joy and Asaph have called Thornwood home for 11 years. Asaph says, “It’s a great community,” and Ella Joy adds, “I like that it’s a really pretty environment, it’s a safe community. Everyone is nice, everything is really convenient, there are lots of parks nearby, and we have the Thornwood Sports Core.”

Their sense of community extends beyond enjoying the local amenities. They are dedicated volunteers at Phil’s Friends, an organization known for delivering care packages to individuals battling cancer. Ella Joy’s connection to Phil’s Friends is deeply personal; when she was diagnosed with cancer in 2013, she received a care package from them.

Recently, Ella Joy and Asaph volunteered at Christ Community Church, packing care packages for those fighting cancer. Each box included items like Bibles, journals, toiletries, blankets, and fuzzy socks. The siblings not only packed the boxes but also decorated them, adding a personal touch. Other tasks included taping the boxes and writing encouraging messages and cards.

Their mom joined them, leading the packing efforts. She has since been asked to be the team lead volunteer for Phil’s Friends by the outreach team at Christ Community Church. Asaph explains their motivation: “To help people with cancer.” Ella Joy adds, “So we could go and make a difference in the lives of people who went through what I went through.”

Both found the experience rewarding. Asaph enjoyed the sense of helping others, while Ella Joy found it rewarding to know that others going through difficult times would receive joy from the care packages.

There will be more opportunities to volunteer and make care packages in the future. If you are interested in helping, please email annewon1@gmail.com for more information. To learn more about Phil’s Friends and their mission, visit Phil's Friends and Christ Community Church.