“All people regardless of ability have the right to a good life.”
It’s a simple, but powerful statement, and it serves as part of the mission statement of Johnson County Board of Services (JCBS). The organization is a nonprofit based in Warrensburg, Missouri, that provides resource navigation for families who have a child or adult with a disability.
With a professional and enthusiastic team, JCBS is highly skilled at connecting families to the resources they need, and then helping monitor those resources for maximum success — or as they say, “enhance, empower and achieve.” The organization has served families across four decades, and currently helps more than 280 families and individuals in Johnson County. There is no fee for case management services, because the organization is funded by local, state and federal dollars that are billed through Medicaid.
One look at the nonprofit’s social media presence and website and it’s easy to see how these goals are put into action. They have a phrase, in fact, that captures their philosophy toward service: S.P.A.R.K. (Supporting People with developmental disabilities through Advocacy, Resources and Kindness).
Across the social media posts, you’ll find photos of inclusive community events. There are positive quotes to inspire you. They share information about the team, and why they love their jobs. You’ll find a “behind the scenes” approach to posts, as well as snapshots of whimsical days at the office. Video helps draw in audiences even closer, focusing on big smiles across big (and little) moments. The mood is bright, inviting and filled with kindness — and it’s a good model for all nonprofits who want to share the importance of their work in a very positive way.
Fueling the website and the social media posts are stories of how the team connects individuals to resources to reach their goals. The stories are grouped by three main themes; advocacy, kindness and resources. Not surprisingly, these themes are tied closely to the Johnson County Board of Services core values.
Interacting with the organization online leaves you with a feeling of “hey, we’re changing lives and enjoying what we do, and you are invited, also.” Not only does the online content, website and video share this message, but the organization actively shares and promotes community events that families of children with disabilities could attend. In this way, they serve as a true community partner and help open even more doors to understanding and inclusion.
What’s the takeaway? It’s a reminder that when you really know who you are, and what you’re meant to do, your organization will naturally invite and encourage others to join you in your work. Today, our team at SJC Marketing tips our Monday Morning Coffee mugs to that!