At just 18 months old, Joshua needed someone to choose him. His grandmother, Monica, stepped in—becoming not only his caregiver, but the foundation for his future.

Over the past two years, with support from ISDD, Monica has gained knowledge, tools and the guidance to help navigate the challenges of raising a child with complex needs. Beyond providing essentials like clothing and food, ISDD's staff helped her advocate for Joshua during critical IEP meetings, ensuring he received the educational support he needed to succeed.

Today, Joshua is reading with greater confidence, improving in school, and staying focused in the classroom. His grades reflect the progress he has made. Where there was once uncertainty, there is now growth, direction, and hope.

Some of the most meaningful moments happen at home. In the evenings, Monica and Joshua read the Children’s Bible together. Guided by her favorite scripture, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” she continues to pour into him, even on the hardest days.

Caregivers like Monica are doing extraordinary work under challenging circumstances. They do not have to do it alone. Your support makes it possible for ISDD to empower, engage, and equip caregivers with the tools and resources they need to provide safe, stable, loving homes for children like Joshua.

At 57 years old, Christina stepped in to care for her three grandchildren—ages 10, 8, and 3—when their mother was unable to do so. For the past two and a half years, she has created a home filled with stability, structure, and unconditional love.

With support from ISDD and our programs, Christina has gained access to resources, guidance, and a supportive community that reminds her she is not alone. Whether watching movies, playing board games, or visiting local parks, she intentionally creates meaningful moments that strengthen her bond with the children.

Guided by her favorite quote, “We are leaders and not followers,” she works daily to instill confidence, discipline, and strong values in her grandchildren.

According to her case manager, “Her resilience, consistency, and unconditional love are evident in everything she does. Despite life’s challenges, she remains deeply committed to creating a stable, nurturing environment where her grandchildren can grow, succeed, and feel genuinely loved.”

Caregivers like Christina are doing extraordinary work every day. Your support helps ISDD empower, educate, and equip kinship caregivers with the tools and resources they need to provide safe, stable, and loving homes for children in their care.

At 71 years old, SJ thought her days of raising a young child were long behind her. But when her 16-month-old granddaughter needed a safe and stable home, everything changed.

Without hesitation, SJ stepped in.

In a moment that could have shaped her granddaughter’s life forever, SJ became her refuge. With her father often away on long trucking routes, there was no consistent caregiver—no steady place to land. But SJ made sure her granddaughter would never have to wonder where she belonged.

She became her home.

Now four years old, her granddaughter is thriving—her days filled with laughter, learning, and love. Together, they share simple but meaningful moments: watching Cocomelon, Peppa Pig, Bluey, Luna, and Doggyland, or spending time outdoors, side by side. What may seem ordinary is, in truth, extraordinary—because these are the moments that build a safe, joyful childhood.

A childhood that was protected because someone stepped in.

But love alone couldn’t carry every burden.

Two years ago, SJ came to ISDD in need of support. Through the program, she received legal assistance to secure temporary guardianship—ensuring her granddaughter’s stability and future. She also received essential items like diapers, pull-ups, and household supplies, along with ongoing caregiver support that reminded her she wasn’t alone in this journey.

With that support, SJ could focus on what she does best: loving her granddaughter fiercely and raising her with care, consistency, and compassion.

Because of SJ, a little girl didn’t fall through the cracks.

Because of support from donors like you, that love was strengthened.

And because of one grandmother’s unwavering devotion, a childhood was not lost—it was saved.