JADE Families
A GEM in the CommunityAt JADE Families, we believe that everyone deserves to have a sense of purpose and belonging. Established in 2021, our mission is to support post-high school individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, or mental health challenges in finding meaningful ways to engage in their communities—socially, functionally, and through enhanced work skills. We honor and celebrate these individuals as GEMs (God’s Exceptional Masterpieces).
Who is a GEM?
A GEM is an adult (16 or older) who has completed school and is stepping into adult life with special needs. They seek extra support, guidance, and meaningful opportunities for social connections, work experiences, and continued personal growth. GEMs are individuals eager to learn, develop, and find their place in the world with the support they need to thrive.
Most importantly, a GEM is someone who:
- Brings joy
- Has a life that is meaningful
- Desires to be part of the community
- Has a desire for social engagement and relationships
- Wants to have fun
- Is looking for social outlets
- Wants to find work
- …and so much more!
About Us
Our Mission
JADE families seeks to facilitate the successful engagement of post-high school individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, or mental health challenges into our communities so they may participate socially, functionally, and with expanded work skills. With respect and admiration, these individuals are recognized as GEMs (God’s Exceptional Masterpieces).
OUR APPROACH
To fulfill our Mission, JADE Families is dedicated to:
- Offering social opportunities both at the EJ Therapy Wooster Clinic and within the community
- Creating social settings that foster a sense of community among individuals and their families
- Supporting family dialogue, offering assistance, and helping solve challenges to address social and accessibility needs
- Providing education for parents and families as needs arise
- Identifying and supporting the development of essential life skills
- Identifying and providing training in work skills
- Exploring access to work coaches and related training
- Helping families identify financial resources to support specific needs
Our Values
Profound Respect
for the GEMs, for their families/caregivers, and for those who work with them
Empathy
for the successes and challenges of GEMs and their families
Compassion
to offer meaningful strategies for known personal challenges
Commitment
to bring our passion, drive, and energy to the JADE Families who are part of our communities
Get Involved
Text about volunteering will go into this block.
Upcoming Events
Oct 18 - Costume Contest
6-8 pm, Shreve, OH
Our Board
Eunice Herman, President
Eunice is an Occupational Therapist by background, co-owner of EJ Therapy Services. Eunice dreams of helping all people feel a part of something, welcome in a community, and find value in what they do and who they are.
Janine Bair, Vice President
Janine has over 30 years experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant and is co-owner of EJ Therapy. Janine values family and community and is excited to help Gems build meaningful relationships through Jade Families.
Rachel Speelman, Treasurer
I have been an Intervention Specialist working with children with special needs in the public school system for 13 years. I am autism certified, ABA therapy certified, as well as a level one Dyslexia Practitioner. I am also the Vice- President and founding board member of the local non- profit The Wayne County Children’s Playlab. I have two young children of my own. I also have a little sister that has Angelman’s Syndrome that is the pillar for my passion for making the world a better and more inclusive place for “Gems”.
Bonnie Franks, Secretary
Info to come.
Gaylord Seemann, Member
A lucky father of a GEM. Someone who has learned a lot from his special son and is challenged daily by him to be a better person. Also, a long-time executive IT leader and current church elder.
Chuck Visocky, Member
Copy to come.
Deb Gress, Member
Copy to come.