Comfort & Joy 2023

As we wind down the year, we want to thank you for your support along the way. Wishing you Comfort & Joy this holiday season & beyond!

Dear Friends,

Have you thought about what you will do when you are no longer able to live in your current home? Due to various circumstances each of us face, at some point in our lives we will likely have to consider changing our living environment – either for ourselves or someone we love. This year, thanks to your kindness and generosity, we were able to assist five individuals in Manassas, Virginia in the most incredible way by custom designing a home to meet their individual needs. 

This new, single-story home will allow folks with developmental disabilities to age in place and offers new technology and significantly improved accessibility, all while remaining on the same piece of property they’ve grown to know and love. One of the most heartfelt stories to come out of this transition is about Mr. S who had been a resident of the previous home for fifteen years. Over the course of the last couple of years, his mobility has diminished and he requires much larger equipment to adapt to some increased physical challenges. One of these items is a wheelchair of significant size, which was too large to fit through the bathroom door in his previous home.

HELP PEOPLE WHO NEED YOU MOST: DONATE TO CRi TODAY!

In order to maintain healthy hygiene, Mr. S would have to undergo daily sponge baths. Just imagine his joy when he was able to be taken into his new bathroom and shower made especially for him. Mr. S was supported by three staff members as he felt warm water splash all over his body for the first time in two years. He was so excited he began singing his favorite songs by his favorite singer, Elvis Presley. Don’t you just love that he immediately started singing in the shower? 

After finishing his shower and changing into pajamas, he thanked staff profusely, saying “that was exciting!” Your donations to CRi make joyful moments like this possible. As I think about Mr. S’s experience, I’m reminded that many of us take so much for granted each day and I’m incredibly grateful and humbled to be leading an organization that helps others celebrate joy in all of life’s moments. 

Thank you for caring about people in our community who need a little extra support to help them lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives. This holiday season, I hope you’ll continue your generosity by making a gift to CRi. Your kindness truly makes a positive impact on the lives of others and offers both comfort and joy through the holiday season and beyond. 

With gratitude,

Justin Zakia, President & CEO

CRi is dedicated to providing personalized resources to youth at risk of homelessness, and people with mental health needs or developmental disabilities. Since 1975, CRi has focused on individualized and professional care, supporting the people who need support most. CRi envisions a world where all people have the choice, respect, and the resources needed to live a fulfilling life with dignity and purpose.

Help us to deliver Comfort & Joy this holiday season: DONATE TODAY!