PHILADELPHIA, PA — On the evening of May 7, Judith Creed Horizons for Achieving Independence (JCHAI) is set to host its annual Spring Gala Celebration, a vital event in the nonprofit’s calendar. The gala, which stands as the organization’s largest fundraising event, aims to gather support for scholarships and programs designed to empower individuals with disabilities, enabling them to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
Since its inception in 1987, JCHAI has broadened its mission beyond merely providing independent living services. Today, the organization offers a comprehensive suite of services that include education, employment, personal growth, and opportunities to volunteer within the Philadelphia community. Remarkably, about 80% of JCHAI members are employed in competitive integrated positions, a stark contrast to the national average of 17% among adults with disabilities.
The upcoming gala is not just a celebration of the past year’s achievements but also a testament to the resilience and excellence of the individuals JCHAI serves. The event will feature personal stories from JCHAI members, their families, and community leaders, providing attendees a deeper insight into the impact of the organization’s work.
Among the distinguished speakers at the gala is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who praised JCHAI’s contributions to the community. “JCHAI members show us every day what it means to actively participate in the Philadelphia community,” Shapiro stated, highlighting the organization’s role in fostering a more inclusive society.
A highlight of the evening will be an auction featuring prizes such as a luxury stay at the Vidanta Riviera Maya resort and Phillies CP Rankin Club seat tickets. Additionally, the gala will honor Judith Creed, a founding family member and Board Chair, with a lifetime achievement award for her nearly four decades of dedication to enhancing the lives of adults with developmental differences and disabilities.
Creed shared her personal motivation for her work, stemming from the challenges faced by her son Jonah. “After 20 years of being told that what my family and Jonah wanted for his life was impossible, we decided to redefine ‘possible’,” Creed remarked, expressing gratitude for the progress made through collective efforts.
In a major announcement set for the gala, JCHAI will formalize its merger with the Association for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (AADD). This strategic partnership marks a significant advancement in collaborative efforts among nonprofits catering to adults with disabilities, facilitated by support from the Nonprofit Repositioning Fund. The merger promises to expand the reach and effectiveness of both organizations in empowering more individuals to live without limitations.
The Spring Gala, titled “A Night to Remember,” aims to reinforce JCHAI’s commitment to its mission while celebrating the achievements of its members and supporters. It represents a crucial opportunity for the community to rally around a cause that promotes independence, inclusion, and personal growth for individuals with disabilities.
The Spring Gala will begin at 6:00 PM at 274 S Bryn Mawr Ave in Bryn Mawr, PA. Guests can register by purchasing a ticket at https://jchai.org.
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