Extra Special People, Inc. (esp) announces a remarkable year filled with extraordinary experiences, community support, and a strong sense of purpose. Based in Watkinsville, this nonprofit organization has dedicated 38 years to providing programs for individuals with disabilities. In 2020, esp expanded its reach by launching Java Joy in two new cities, Rome and Atlanta, and has since rolled out a comprehensive suite of programs, fostering transformative communities in both Rome and Marietta.
During this fiscal year, esp has made a significant impact, serving over 1,100 participants and their families, thanks to the generosity of 4,097 donors who contributed more than $12 million to various esp initiatives. This charitable support includes a remarkable seven-figure real estate donation, securing the future home for Camp Hooray in Jackson County. Additionally, the incredible efforts of more than 1,735 volunteers have been instrumental in bringing positive change to the lives of our participants and their families, underscoring the power of community involvement.
“The need is greater than ever, and our donors continue to believe in changing communities for the better through beautifully inclusive programs supporting people of all abilities, their families and giving purpose to all who walk through the doors,” said CEO of esp & Co-Founder of Java Joy, Laura Hope Whitaker. “As evidenced by our growth to Savannah, we have big dreams to continue meeting the needs, and that takes big investment courage. We promise to continue the ripple in communities thanks to people who continue to believe in us.”
The record-breaking year continues as the number of unique families served has increased 58% over the past three years, and financial support has doubled over the same period.
“I am filled with gratitude seeing donors — long-time and first-time, corporate and individual, local and abroad — recognize the opportunities for transformative life change at this moment in our history and are committed to making that possibility reality,” said Alex C. Perry, Director of Development for esp.
This year our programs have provided 5,499 hours of employment for our Joyristas and given 656 campers a unique summer camp experience and 938 active participants a year’s worth of wrap-around support.
Hunter Pugh Andrews, Director of Programs for esp shared, “2024 has witnessed a significant rise in the number of families in need of esp. Whether we are diligently working to transition participants off a waitlist or addressing emergencies for our families, I am proud of how our team approached each day with unwavering dedication to both our newest families and long-time members of our community.”
2024 highlights include:
- Savannah raised $250,000 to launch our newest site.
esp Rome purchased a 12-acre campus and building to serve as their future home. - The esp Athens team eliminated their day camp waitlist, while the statewide team reduced the overnight camp waitlist from 175 down to 110.
- esp Atlanta successfully welcomed over 60 campers to 2 weeks of Hooray summer day camp for the first time ever.
- Donors gave over $1.2 million through esp’s signature event Big Hearts.
$100,000 in additional needs-based scholarships were given to families.
“We want to do everything we can to fulfill our mission of providing transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, and we truly believe that it is changing whole communities for the better,” said Philip Bernardi, chair of the esp National Board of Directors. “Years like this one are a testament to the power of our shared mission and vision and the dedication of every person who made it happen. We are making history at esp. And we want you to be a part of it.”
