Newsletter for the JESPY Community | | JESPY's Big Dig for The JESPY Center Begins! | | |
What an exciting time for JESPY! On December 18th, we officially began construction for The JESPY Center, which will offer affordably-priced residential options for clients of all ages as well as aging in place residential options. The JESPY Center will also provide clients with enhanced program spaces to socialize, learn, and advance their independence.
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During the event, the excavators were on site, along with our architects at Studio 1200, our construction company, Elysium Construction, and our philanthropic counsel, Bixel Group. Exhilaration was in the air as the trucks began to break ground! Excited attendees included JESPY clients, board members, staff, and our Executive Director Audrey Winkler and JESPY Board President Dr. Ahadi Bugg-Levine (both shown above).
Please look at the video linked in the picture below for an inside view of our momentous day for our Go Big for JESPY Capital Campaign!
| In Recognition of Persons With Disabilities | On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which took place December 3rd, several JESPY clients attended a guided tour of the United Nations Headquarters in New York. While there, they learned about the humanitarian and diplomatic work that UN Officers conduct around the world, as well as the various circumstances in which they are deployed to provide aid. | |
The group viewed the General Assembly, Security Council, and Economic and Social Council chambers.
Throughout the tour, clients learned about the history of the extensive collection of artwork and inquired about where the President meets with leaders of other countries.
Later that evening, clients attended a special International Day of Persons with Disabilities event, hosted by JESPY. Held at Judi House, one of JESPY’s program spaces, the event focused on highlighting the artistic and writing talents of JESPY clients and recognizing the global day dedicated to promoting advocacy and inclusion of people with dissabilities.
| | Championing Pedestrian Safety | | Safety for JESPY clients as they walk the streets of South Orange has been a great issue of concern for several years. Over the past few years, clients have been struck by cars due to poor lighting along a number of streets in town. One client recently passed away due to injuries he sustained from being hit by a car in the Village. | | |
On December 8, 2025, JESPY attended but was unable to participate in the public comment portion of the Village Council meeting (shown left) to address our concerns. In turn, JESPY clients, staff, and board members were invited to attend the TAPS (Transportation and Pedestrian Safety) Meeting on Wednesday, January 21st. The meeting begins at 7pm and will be held at the Baird Community Center.
This matter is urgent and our voices cannot be ignored! JESPY clients will continue to advocate for their safety and others in the community.
| | Your Gift To JESPY Opens Doors | | |
Each gift to JESPY House expands opportunities for clients to build confidence, strengthen social networks, advocate for the support they need, advance their employment journeys, and deepen their daily living skills. Each client is on their own path to find independence. Your gift today bridges a funding gap that helps clients take the next step in reaching their personal goals. Click here to help further our clients' journeys.
| | We're Excited to Share JESPY's 2024-25 Annual Report | | |
This fiscal year-in-review celebrates our impact and innovation, and highlights JESPY's progress, partnerships, and advocacy for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The report showcases our key accomplishments, program growth, special projects, and our ongoing commitment to advance independence, inclusion, and limitless opportunities for our clients.
JESPY's 2024-25 annual report outlines client victories, community initiatives, and provides insight into our services—which include clinical, day habilitation, employment, recreation, athletics & fitness, and residential options.
Click Here to view our 2024-25 annual report.
| | Engage With JESPY on Social Media | | |
Stay connected with us on social media and be part of the JESPY community!
By following our pages, you’ll see inspiring stories, keep up to date on JESPY events, and have an up-close view of the impact your support makes in the lives of our clients.
Your engagement and sharing our social media pages with your family, friends, and loved ones helps raise awareness, celebrate client wins and abilities and successes, and encourages opportunities for our clients to continue to live full, meaningful lives. Join our followers and supporters by clicking the links below:
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Don't forget to Like, Follow, Share or Subscribe to our pages and channel!
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Audrey Winkler
Executive Director
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Please visit us at www.jespy.org
for more information about JESPY House services.
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