National Disability Awareness Month, occurring in November, is a time to celebrate the achievements of individuals with disabilities. The Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania embraces this mission by managing endowment funds that provide lasting support to Catholic organizations dedicated to serving individuals with special needs.
Catholic Special Learning Centers Transform the Lives of Their Students
Three special learning centers within our Catholic community — Mercy School for Special Learning in Allentown, John Paul II Center for Special Learning in Reading, and St. Joseph Center for Special Learning in Schuylkill Haven — offer compassionate care and individualized education to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Through the support of endowments, these centers provide:
- Tailored education programs that nurture students academically, socially, and spiritually.
- Vocational training that equips students with skills for meaningful employment.
- Community-based experiences that promote independence and inclusion.
Endowments ensure that these services remain accessible and sustainable for generations to come, giving families peace of mind and hope for a brighter future.
Adult Residential Services Offer Compassionate Catholic Care for Individuals with Special Needs
Dayspring Homes in Reading, is an exceptional organization dedicated to providing compassionate care and residential services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Founded on Christian values, Dayspring Homes offers a family-like atmosphere where residents receive not only physical care but also emotional and spiritual support. With a focus on promoting independence and personal growth, Dayspring Homes empowers residents to lead meaningful lives and participate in their communities.
The Dayspring Homes Fund provides support for residential living and Life Sharing programs, day program activities, client services, special programs, maintenance and capital improvements at Dayspring Homes, Inc.
The Sr. Janice Marie Johnson R.S.M Persons with Disabilities Ministry Endowment Fund: A Legacy of Innovation
Named in memory of Sr. Janice Marie Johnson, R.S.M., a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities, the Sr. Janice Marie Johnson R.S.M Persons with Disabilities Ministry Endowment Fund supports the ongoing efforts in the Diocese of Allentown to continue the good work started by Sister Janice. The fund supports the ongoing programming of a dedicated staffed ministry office to manage the Ministry for Persons With Disabilities program, the Aquinas Education Program at all levels, accessibility efforts and programs at parishes, schools and ministries, and programs at the three Diocesan learning centers (Mercy School in Allentown, John Paul II Center in Reading and St. Joseph Center in Schuylkill Haven).
From creating new opportunities to expanding access to resources, this fund embodies Sr. Janice’s mission of helping persons with disabilities that she advocated for so passionately.
By supporting the Sr. Janice Fund, donors provide organizations with the flexibility to dream big and develop groundbreaking initiatives that make a real difference.
WAYS TO DONATE TO CATHOLIC SPECIAL LEARNING AND LIVING PROGRAMS
Why Disability Awareness Month Matters
National Disability Awareness Month is about embracing the diverse abilities of all individuals. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of persons with disabilities, acknowledging the richness they bring to our communities. The Catholic Foundation’s endowments play a crucial role in this effort by providing the financial stability that allows organizations to focus on their mission—helping individuals with disabilities reach their God-given potential.
Make a Lasting Impact
You can celebrate National Disability Awareness Month by supporting one of these endowment funds. Every gift helps create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to succeed academically, gain independence, and become active participants in their communities.
Your gift today will have an eternal impact. To learn more about our endowment funds or to make a donation, contact us. Together, we can ensure a future of dignity, opportunity, and hope for all.