A Siblings’ Christmas Miracle

For many people with disabilities, the season can be one of isolation and longing. But at Ray Graham Association (RGA), we believe that everyone deserves to experience the joy and belonging that the holidays bring.

With your generous year-end gift, you can empower people with disabilities to make a positive impact on the world. Your support in 2024 helped us:

Launch a new day program from Gateway SRA for adults transitioning from high school to adult life;
Advocate for disability rights and secure a $1 per hour wage increase for Direct Support Professionals;
Provide accessible community resources through a new website and online community hub;
Achieve CQL Accreditation with Distinction, placing us among the top 2% of disability service providers worldwide.

Meet John and Christina

Imagine waking up on Christmas morning without a place to call home and not knowing where to turn. That's the reality that John and Christina, brother and sister, faced just a few years ago.

But thanks to bighearted people like you, our team sprang into action. Within a day, RGA connected John and Christina with supportive homes and caring roommates who quickly became like family—a true Christmas miracle! Just as miraculous, John, a lifelong Cubs fan, even found peace living with a White Sox fan.

Since then, they've both blossomed.

John found his dream job, wrapping packages with pride at the Cary Company. He loves spending time with friends, exploring the city, and cheering on his beloved Cubs.

Christina, a fashionista with a zest for life, found her calling at the DuPage Children's Museum, where she uses her artistic talents to bring joy to others. She even found love at RGA, and now treasures weekly date nights with her boyfriend.

But what truly inspires us about this dynamic duo is their giving spirit. When John isn't at work or on the road, his diligence makes him a model food pantry volunteer. This year, Christina volunteered at Abilities Expo Chicago, where she encouraged her peers to register to vote and make their voices heard. As part of the 2024 Monarch Walk, she even organized a garage sale to raise funds for her “RGA family.”

You can rest assured that RGA is a sound investment. Our four-star rating from Charity Navigator and the accreditation with distinction from CQL confirm that the people we support are:

Empowered to lead with person-centered support.
Valued and respected for their unique perspectives.
Supported by best practices that enhance their quality of life.
Engaged in the community through a shared sense of belonging.

Your gift is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. We also ensure that your online contributions are secure and that we never share your personal information with anyone.