Brayden's palms are sweaty as he clings to the harness holding his body suspended in the tree tops. Seemingly, he is further from safety than he has ever been. He feels the release from the platform as he sails into the air. A scream erupts from his lungs as a wide grin spreads across his face. Wow.

We all know what it's like to face a fear, to put our trust in someone or something outside of ourselves. It's terrifying. It's exhilarating. It's brave. For kids with intellectual disabilities, it's often not possible. 

Risk? That's taking rare trips to the grocery store, interacting with yet another doctor, and plunging into adolescence with limited means of communication. Going horseback riding, shooting with a bow and arrow, or soaring on a zip-line - those risks often aren't even options. 

Now they can be. 

Brayden zip-lined for the first time at Jill's House Lake Arrowhead in California surrounded by caring staff and volunteers cheering him on and affirming him with confidence. When he returned home, his parents received pictures of their little boy high up in the trees, daring to do the impossible. The camp staff shared, "his family was moved to tears when they saw their son conquer his fears." For those moments in midair, Brayden wasn't handicapped, fearful, or held back. 

He was brave.

Giving us your time, your children, your efforts, and your resources is also courageous. You have trusted us to continue to do the good work God is doing, and you have been bold in your support. You have provided the opportunity to dive into the unknown, let go of labels, defy expectations, and make room for bravery. Those are gifts you gave, and they will continue to make a profound impact on the kids and families we serve at Jill's House.

One Week To Go!
Tickets are on sale for one of our favorite events of the year, An Evening in December. Join women in the community for an evening of music and message, love and laughter, renewal and restoration. Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door with Jill's House receiving all proceeds.
 


#GivingTuesday

The final total for Giving Tuesday was.... 

$109,029

Thanks to all of you, more kids like Brayden will be able to experience the wonder and freedom of camp. We are so in awe of your generosity and partnership, and we look forward to all that will be accomplished as a result. 

Make sure to checkout this video expressing our gratitude. The kids couldn't wait to say thank you!



United Airlines Gives Back


On November 11th, our kids received  a furry friend,  Ben Flyin, as  a travel com panion  for  t he holidays courtesy of  United Airlines. 

Three United employees visited Jill's House in Virginia  to drop off a wagon overflowing with the  Teddy Bears and little toy airplanes. 

With big smiles, each child received the toys and listened to the volunteers shared the stories of  all the exciting places Ben has travelled. 

"It was amazing to see the excitement on  each kid's face," said our Director of Advancement, Andy Krispin.  "Our kids have big imaginations and the idea of flying opens up all sorts of possibilities for these wonderful children to explore. The bears were definitely a big hit!"
We are so appreciative that a few members of the United team were able to spend time during the holiday season celebrating our kids and caring for them through providing opportunities to let their imaginations soar.
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