By Presious Mills
Established in 2008, Josiah’s House Inc. stands as a beacon of hope for individuals impacted by autism and developmental disabilities. This initiative holds a deeply personal connection for its founder, Ms. Irene Jones, whose son Josiah inspired the organization’s inception.
Facing challenges with existing group homes’ inability to provide Josiah with an environment conducive to his growth and development, Ms. Jones took an extraordinary step. Determined to offer her son the best resources and support with dignity, she left her job as an RTA driver. Immersing herself in learning, she gained certifications from The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, laying the foundation for Josiah’s House.
Josiah’s House Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to providing pathways to employment services and community life engagement activities. Their mission revolves around empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and autism to achieve self-sufficiency and independence.
Operating within the organization, Josiah’s House hosts In The Valley Café, a grab-n-go coffee shop open to the public on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm. This initiative aligns with Ohio’s Employment First program, advocating meaningful work opportunities for all individuals within the community, including those with disabilities.
At Josiah’s House, individuals, affectionately referred to as “friends,” receive vocational training, life skills, and engage in diverse activities, including art/dance therapy and seasonal horse therapy at Fieldstone Farm. The organization facilitates job placement opportunities, particularly in the food service industry and customer care, empowering friends to contribute meaningfully to society. Josiah’s House also offers transportation services, emphasizing accessibility and community integration for friends associated with the organization.
Driven by their vision to enhance the everyday lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and autism, Josiah’s House fosters an environment where personal choice is paramount, allowing friends to realize their full potential.
For those seeking transportation services or desiring a tour to meet the friends, Josiah’s House can be contacted at:
Phone: 216-236-6960
Fax: 216-236-6964
Website: www.josiahshouseinc.org
Email: irene@josiahhouseinc.org
Address: 981 Keynote Circle Drive, Ste 13, Brooklyn Heights, Ohio 44131
Under the leadership of CEO/Founder Irene B. Jones, Josiah’s House Inc. stands as a testament to empowerment, inclusion, and the boundless possibilities achievable through compassion and dedication.