THE J.O.Y. SCHOOL

Serving youth with disabilities

J.O.Y stands for Jesus first, Others second & Yourself last

J.O.Y. bespeaks the dedicated self-sacrifice that goes into meeting the educational and emotional needs of students with disabilities.  The school is located at Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church and is founded on love.  Those who love enough to serve and those who love enough to give.  Totally dependent on charitable gifts, the J.O.Y. School exists because someone cared.  Enough people have cared that no parents have had to pay a fee for their child to attend.

During the summer months many children lose the gains that were made during the regular school year.  Some children become isolated and lonely, lacking proper stimulation.  The school/camp provides an important bridge.

A well-qualified director and staff are hired each year.  A music therapist utilizes rhythms and song to achieve specific objectives.  Highly trained teachers on staff work in group classes.  The director, and professional therapists are joined by volunteers who work tirelessly to see the school succeed.  The J.O.Y. School mixes fun and recreation with a structured learning environment to help each child develop his/her potential to the fullest such as, music, arts and crafts, swimming, field trips and an evening performance.  The children are also provided a nutritious, well balanced, hot lunch and snack each day.

The program and finances of the J.O.Y. School are overseen by a board of directors made up of prominent community leaders from various walks of life and denominations.  The school is non-profit and non-denominational.

The J.O.Y. School exists because of generous people, businesses and foundations... those who open their hearts in love for these youngsters who need our help the most.  At J.O.Y. School each child is uniquely gifted and loved by God.