JACOBS CHANCE INC
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Mission Statement
Jacob's Chance enriches lives by empowering individuals 5-40 years old with developmental, intellectual, with or without physical disabilities through inclusive programs that promote personal development and positive relationships.
About This Cause
Jacob's Chance operates programs to support the needs of families and individuals with intellectual, developmental, and/or physical disabilities in Central Virginia. Programs include fitness, athletics, socialization programs, enrichment programs, classes for health and wellness, and family educational and support activities. Jacobs Chance was incorporated in 2013 as a public, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and had operated for the 3 years prior under the Glen Allen League as River City Buddy Ball. Jacob's Chance was formed due to an interest in growth and the need to keep programs free of charge and barrier free for families. Almost all of the programs offered on a pay-what-you-can, low- to no-cost pay scale. Many families caring for a loved one with disabilities are fearful to try new things especially if there is a cost. In addition, our programs are open to all and not limited by a diagnosis. We serve all people ages 5 - 40 with intellectual, developmental, with or without physical disabilities. Weekly enrichment classes, social groups, outdoor adventures, fitness and year round buddy ball sports help often-isolated individuals and their families find social support, and enrich lives with programs that develop friendships with peers with and without disabilities. Different from other organizations, our programs are focused on wellness and socialization and not competition—everyone gets a chance to shine, shoot a basket, or hit a ball. Our model is one of inclusion and providing year-round weekly opportunities that participants get to choose, not simply occasional big events or membership to an organization. All funds raised serve Central Virginia. Our programs do not exclude anyone based on a diagnosis or disability. There are over 10,000 children in Virginia who face challenges but do not have a true diagnosis or meet the disability measures for participation in other programs. Families caring for a child who has a disability face many financial, social, and access obstacles, so our programs limit barriers by being low- to no-cost, accepting and adapting for all, having a strong skills-base in staff and volunteers, and providing socially supportive experiences for siblings and caregivers who are often experiencing isolation themselves. Offerings include athletics: baseball, basketball, flag football, taekwondo, pickleball, tennis, soccer, and golf; inclusive social experiences organized by the Teen Board: Guys, Gals, and Games (3G) for Teens and Adults, The Hangout for Adults, and Teen Scene for teens, and quarterly dances; Day Enrichment: filmmaking, creative writing, photography, Art from the Heart with Art on Wheels, Exploring the Stars (Astronomy), social media marketing and safety, Wellness with Henrico County, Yoga and Movement with Connect Wellness, Culinary Arts, Open Mic Karaoke, music, and Helping Hands (community service); Adventures in partnership with Wave Riders: surf camps; Adventures in partnership with Beyond Boundaries: fishing, hiking, whitewater rafting, pontoon boat rides; Inclusive Fitness and Health in partnership with VCU Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences; and summer camps for participants ages 5 - 40 in a wide-range of disciplines. We are requesting funds to combine with our fundraising and pledged support to replicate and relocate our existing programs so that they are accessible to families and individuals with disabilities who can benefit from regular socialization, wellness and fitness programs, and athletics through inclusive participation. Establishing a location in Richmond City will allow participants to attend through public transportation, build trust with families who might be hesitant to try something new, and be accessible to a far greater geographic area. In addition, the funds will support the training and expansion of the volunteer network so programs can be offered in more rural locations, managed by volunteer leaders.