Who we are

Our Office Staff: Mrs. Christine Hillesheim, Area Director (right)
Mr. Byron Sellers, Church Relations Coordinator (center)
Mrs. Rachel Caughran, Project Coordinator (left)

Advisory Board of Directors:
Mr. Roger McDonald, Chair
Mr. Leon Tuttle, Treasurer
Mrs. Barbara Hautau, Recording Secretary
Mrs. Chris Hillesheim, Area Director
Mrs. Sally D'Alessandro
Mr. John Hilton
Mrs. Bobbie Humphries
Mr. Nick Leone

Family Retreat
The stress and strain of life with a disability is very high and often wearing on the whole family. Family Retreats provide dynamic five-day summer programs that refresh and strengthen the whole family in a safe and accepting environment. Trained volunteers extend the love of Christ by serving families in practical ways.

Each retreat is en enriching and inspiring week where families and volunteers build lasting memories, friendships, and a renewed hope in God.

2008 Bonclarken Retreat dates are: July 28-August 1 and August 11-15

Through the Roof, Church Ministry
Joni and Friends works with a variety of churches throughout our region, which includes the greater Charlotte area, the Carolinas, Georgia, and southern Virginia. These churches work to meet the needs of families with disabilities in their local communities.

Just like the friends of the paralyzed man did when they lowered their friend "through the roof" to get him to Jesus, we equip churches to do whatever it takes to reach out and include people with disabilities and their families. Joni and Friends provides churches with program materials, training, curriculum, and special projects designed to implement effective disability outreach within their community. Luke 14 mandates us to bring the disabled to Jesus..."so my house will be full."

Click Here to find a church in your area with a Disability Outreach!

Wheels for the World
The explosive growth of Wheels for the World testifies to the critical need for wheelchair distributions in developing countries, where the cost of a chair can equal a year’s wages. Used manual wheelchairs are collected locally, year-round, and shipped to correctional facilities in the United States. Once restored, they are sent overseas, where short-term mission teams work diligently to give the gift of mobility. Offered with every wheelchair is a Bible and the good news that Jesus Christ loves and values each one of us regardless of our abilities or disabilities.

Joni and Friends Charlotte took our third annual trip to Kenya this summer and distributed 100 wheelchairs and Bibles. Thanks for all your prayers!

Special Delivery
Special Delivery is a year-round opportunity for church groups and individuals to prepare and deliver beautiful packages containing spiritually uplifting materials provided by Joni and Friends Charlotte to children and adults living in long-term care or rehabilitation facilities. Each year, lives affected by disabilities are touched with hope and encouragement because of local believers who extend their hearts and hands through the ministry of Special Delivery.

On a Roll for Jesus!
Disability Awareness Program and Missions Project

With this unique and inspiring curriculum, your kids can learn to understand and accept people with disabilities. It includes a mission project that reaches out to families who are dealing with different types of disabilities; a wonderful opportunity for your kids to serve God and others!

Use in Sunday School, midweek programs, any Christian classroom, or as an add-on to your VBS curriculum. For children ages 4-12. Kit includes: Teacher's guide, reproducible worksheets, DVD, sing-along CD, posters, and other support materials.