Joni and Friends
Joni and Friends: Advancing Disability Ministry Around the World
In 1967, 17-year-old Joni Eareckson Tada was injured in a diving accident that left her in a quadriplegic state with minimal use of her hands. After two years of rehabilitation, she re-entered the community with new skills and a fresh determination to help others in similar situations.
Joni and Friends began in 1979 at Joni’s house as she and her friends responded to the many questions and needs pouring in from families affected by disability who had read Joni’s books or seen the movie of her life.
Since the beginning, Joni and Friends has been answering the call in the Gospel of Luke 14 to “invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind and you will be blessed… make them come in so my house will be full.” The organization is built on Biblical truth and the foundation of Jesus Christ, and focuses on advancing disability ministry and changing the church and communities around the word.
Joni and Friends presents the clear and concise Gospel of Jesus Christ to all people affected by disability and their families, serving them through programs worldwide. The organization trains, disciples, and mentors people affected by disability to exercise their gifts of leadership and service in their churches and communities. It also energizes the church to move from lack of awareness to including disabled persons into the fabric of worship, fellowship, and outreach.
“For over 20 years, CapinCrouse has provided invaluable insight and solid accountability to our senior leadership and board of directors at Joni and Friends,” says Billy Burnett, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Joni and Friends. “CapinCrouse’s fiscal guidance, diligent review and targeted recommendations of our work have helped us stay focused and faithful to being great stewards of our mission to serve people affected by disability. You won’t find a better friend to ministries than CapinCrouse.”
Key Ministries:
- Wheels for the World: Sending the gift of mobility and the Gospel message worldwide.
- Family Retreats: Domestic and international retreats for families that live with disability.
- Television Series: Each episode highlights God’s goodness in a world shattered by suffering.
- Radio Program: Joni Eareckson Tada shares encouragement and Biblical insights.
- Christian Institute on Disability: Higher education, ministry training, and Public Policy Center.
- Church Relations: Equipping churches for disability ministry.
See the story and inspiration behind Joni and Friends:
Photos and video courtesy of Joni and Friends.