Alora is More Committed Than Ever to Make a Difference in the World of Disability
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14–16
It was the moment ten-year-old Alora had waited for: welcoming families to Family Retreat, and her joy overflowed.
Volunteers young and old lined the road with signs, banners, and smiles. Alora first learned about Joni and Friends when she turned a candle-making hobby into a business and wanted to give back with the proceeds she earned. When she heard Joni Eareckson Tada’s story—and learned how Joni and Friends reaches people with disabilities worldwide—she couldn’t wait to get involved.
Alora’s Heart for Disability Ministry
As a volunteer at Family Retreat, Alora (alongside her family members) spent each day setting up afternoon activities, sharing meals with an individual with disability, learning more about disability awareness, and participating in various other service and friendship activities. She finished the week in tears during the closing service as she shared how impactful it was to learn how to serve others through Family Retreat.
After seeing Joni and Friends in action, Alora was more committed than ever to make a difference by partnering with Joni and Friends.
For every item sold through her business, Alora now donates a portion of her proceeds to provide Family Retreat scholarship funds for families living with disability. She also sends a personal note, a brochure about Joni and Friends, and a pamphlet of Joni’s story with every purchase.
In her first year of business Alora raised enough money to send six people to Family Retreat! Like many of our dedicated volunteers, Alora self-sacrificially gives to Family Retreat through her talents, finances, and acts of service all year long. She has truly answered God’s call to boldly let her light shine before others.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
1 Peter 4:10
Like Alora, you can support Joni and Friends, sending families to our Retreats & Getaways, and providing hands-on help and Gospel hope to people worldwide through Wheels for the World™ and Joni’s House.
Support Joni and Friends Mississippi
Your gift today will shine the light of Christ at home and across the globe!
