501-362-7526 info@maysmission.org 604 Colonial Drive, Heber Springs, Arkansas 72543

Change and Attitude

We are all brought into this world with our own unique set of circumstances.  Some are born into wealth and prosperity while some are born into poverty; some short and some tall; some with a natural ability to excel in certain areas while others struggle to make the grade.  Whatever the situation might be, no two individuals are alike.

As we meander through life’s intriguing journey, there usually comes a time when we all decide we are ready for a change.  Whatever it might be, more likely than not, the change will not be instantaneous or easy.

Change usually takes time and most definitely a conscious effort.  Whether it’s changing habits or lifestyle, or changing yourself physically, mentally or spiritually, the decision to change will require a different way of thinking and a lot of patience.

With the disabled, changes never seem to come fast enough.  Often the change we are looking for is a cure or miracle drug or procedure that will propel us into mainstream of life.  Like everyone else, patience is the key.

Unfortunately, change doesn’t always come.  Sometimes we just have to live with the hand that’s been dealt us.  We can sit and mope and wallow in self-pity or we can make that conscious decision to make the best of what we have.  Anyone can do nothing-physically fit or disabled.  It takes a sound mind and a lot of heart to say, “No matter what my circumstances are, I am going to make the best of what God has given me and trust that he will see me through.”

Change isn’t always easy, and sometimes it seems impossible, but we always have a choice in attitude.  Attitude toward change and life’s circumstances makes all the difference in the world!  Now how’s your attitude?

If you want to make a positive change in your community contact us at info@maysmission.org or call us and we can provide you with free brochures to help make a positive change in someone’s life. Thank you!

October Is National Disability Employee Awareness Month

This October is a time to recognize the contributions of Americans with disabilities and to encourage all citizens to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce. First declared in 1988 by Congress for the month of October to raise awareness of the needs and contributions of disabled individuals, National Disability Employee Awareness Month is a time to recognize that people with disabilities have equal or higher job retention, lower absenteeism, and that their job performance is equal to their non-disabled counterparts. It is a time to urge employers to hire persons with disabilities. How can you do this? Call at 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org and we will be happy to send you our brochure on “On-the-Job Training”, which you can share with employers in your area. 

Thank you for your support of people with disabilities!

Seeking, but Not Finding

What is the first thought that comes to mind when someone utters the word “disabled?”  (Try it. It’s interesting.)  Is it homebound, a wheelchair, someone who is blind or maybe uses a cane or crutch?  Fact is, we all have our own interpretation. And, when it comes to disabilities, no two are alike.

 Although no two disabled individuals are alike, two-thirds of the 54 million disabled individuals in the United States desire employment. I have stated this before but I feel that it deserves repeating; what would happen to our welfare, Medicare, unemployment, and the national debt if these people desiring employment were put to work?  Let’s say less than half of these people started working.  In two years’ time they could be let off welfare, hopefully off Medicare, and contributing to the system instead of depleting. A unique concept? Possibly, but I don’t think so.  People, especially employers and our representatives in Washington, D.C. need to think along these lines and find avenues of training and employment for these people.

We do our best to do our part at Mays Mission for the Handicapped.  In providing on-the-job training and scholarships, we put people with disabilities to work and provide them an opportunity to further their education. You can do your part by encouraging an employer to hire people with disabilities.  Also, call or write your congressman or congresswoman and ask them what they are doing to increase awareness of the fact that people with disabilities want, need, and deserve quality employment. For more information or copies of our brochure “On-The-Job Training” and “Preparing For College – Grants and Scholarships” call us or email us at info@maysmission.org today.

Strive to do “something!”

Whether you are one of the healthiest people around, young or old, able-bodied or not, we all have dreams and aspirations that we set for ourselves.  Be it monetary, education, employment, marriage-whatever- we all want to succeed in life.

Often time’s people tend to set limitations on themselves and especially those with disabilities.  We all need to set goals in our lives and pursue them with vigor.  Literally anyone can sit around and do nothing.  It takes no talent or ambition.  Anyone can feel sorry for themselves.  In doing so you gain nothing and waste precious time that can never be retrieved.

With that said, how about setting the simple goal of being an encourager?  When your heart is set on helping others you are not only enabling and encouraging them to pursue their dreams but you are setting yourself up to be blessed!  In doing this, you are administering the “Golden Rule” in Matthew 7:12 “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…”

Let’s all add one more goal to that list of aspirations-be an encourager!  You will feel better. They will feel better.  You will be pleasing God and fulfilling one of his commands. Give it a shot- be an encourager! 

Think before building or moving

With interest rates low, many people are thinking of buying a house or building that dream new home. Ninety-nine percent of the time, a new home purchase is the biggest investment you will make.

People with pre-existing disabilities usually think ahead and plan for obstacles and possible hindrances in the new house or building project. Wide doors and an open floor plan are usually very good ideas. These options are easy to incorporate when you know your limitations.

It might do everyone middle-aged and over some good to do a little thinking and planning ahead too. If you or someone in your family is arthritic or have a history of arthritis one might want to avoid too many stairs and steps. It may not seem like a big deal now, but later on in life you might appreciate not having to climb uphill to go to bed, use the bathroom or carry in groceries. Also consider family and friends who might want to come for an extended visit or a vacation.

Also remember to keep that new home safe. Install smoke detectors for everyone. There are not only the normal, everyday smoke detectors but also ones for the hearing impaired and deaf as well. These detectors give off a bright flashing light to alert of impending danger to those who cannot hear. There are also vibrating detectors to lie on your bed or under your pillow.

Yes, it does pay to think ahead when making one of the biggest investments of your life. Just a little preplanning can make this purchase safe, sound and practical.

If you have any experiences with this subject please share in the comments section. For more information on helping people with disabilities in your community please call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today. Thank you for supporting the disabled!

Make Your Fourth of July Safe!

According to Prevent Blindness America, nearly 13,000 firework victims keep hospitals busy every ear. More than half of those injured are children. Fireworks not only injure users, data from the U.S. Eye Injury Registry shows that bystanders are more often injured by fireworks than operators.

The three types of fireworks that keep hospital emergency rooms busy during this holiday period are bottle rockets, firecrackers, and sparklers. Bottle rockets and firecrackers can fly in any direction prior to exploding and sparklers burn at temperatures hot enough to melt gold.

One of the reasons firework injuries continue to occur is because people just don’t consider how dangerous these devices can be. People often don’t realize – until they are injured – that the risk of blindness or injury outweighs the excitement of taking risks with fireworks. And giving fireworks to young children can mean a trip to the hospital emergency room.

Have a super 4th of July and make sure your Independence Day celebration is a safe one!

What Does Disability.gov Do?

Disability.gov is the federal government website for comprehensive information on disability programs and services in communities nationwide. The site links to more than 14,000 resources from federal, state and local government agencies; academic institutions; and nonprofit organizations. You can find answers to questions about everything from Social Security benefits to employment to affordable and accessible housing.

New information is added daily across 10 main subject areas – Benefits, Civil Rights, Community Life, Education, Emergency Preparedness, Employment, Health, Housing, Technology and Transportation.

Disability.gov is a web portal, which means every time you select a resource, you will be directed to another website. For example, a resource about Social Security benefits may direct you to the Social Security Administration’s website, www.ssa.gov. Disability.gov is not responsible for the maintenance of these resources or websites.

If you know of any other valuable resources please share them in the comments section. If you would like more information please call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today.

Thank you for all you do to support people with disabilities.

Education Assistance for the Disabled

Did you know that Mays Mission for the Handicapped provides scholarship opportunities to people with disabilities? It is one of the most successful and rewarding programs we offer.


One may assume that all college costs at one particular institution are the same. Yet, for the individual with a disability those costs may skyrocket because of “special needs.” A modified dorm room, tutoring, an assistive learning device or attendant care are just a smidgen of the myriad of extra expenses that may arise. It is difficult enough to secure college funding without the addition of common everyday needs of people with disabilities.


More and more, people with disabilities are overcoming stereotypical outlooks of hopelessness and pursuing their dreams. They are pushing the limits in areas never before thought possible. Through our scholarship program we have seen a quadriplegic attain his goal of working with NASA, a blind man become a lawyer, a young lady with multiple learning disabilities go on to be a securities agent. The success stories are endless and dreams are becoming realities.


Several of our recipients have stated that without the monetary and morale assistance of Mays Mission they may have never made it through to their goals. We are very proud of our graduates and their accomplishments. Through your generous gifts we hope to be able to continue this program for years to come!


For more information or a scholarship application call, write, or email us at info@maysmission.org today.

Our scholarship application can be found here:

Continuing the work of our founder Ewing W. Mays

Ewing W. Mays always remained strong in his belief that there were many goals yet unaccomplished for the Mission. The founder of the Mission was familiar with continuing needs for appropriate housing, jobs, therapy and spiritual guidance for the handicapped. He was dedicated towards these goals.

 Mays Mission for the Handicapped, Inc. began 50 years ago in 1972 with a dream of Mr. Mays’ to provide employment and job training for handicapped workers.  From its meager beginnings the Mission has grown and is now housed in a 10,000-sq. ft. facility.

Today, the Mission has a data processing department, a prepress, and graphic arts department, a complete lettershop, a large bindery, and two large color printing presses.

Ewing W. Mays lost both legs during a shelling attack in 1943 in Sicily where he was serving in World War II. Following his traumatic loss and reflecting on the enormity of it, he said, “I became very angry with the military, with the medical personnel, but most of all I was angry with God for letting such a terrible thing happen to me.”

Young Mays became so despondent, a chaplain was sent in to talk to him. It was during this conversation that a spiritual seed was planted in Mays and he regained the will to live. He began to realize that a loving God might have a worthwhile purpose for him, even though he had no legs.

He attributed his turnaround to two things: discovering Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and falling in love with his lovely wife, Fay. They were married more than fifty years.

Mays accomplished many great things in his life as a disabled veteran. Initially he toured with a group of disabled veterans and sold war bonds and recruited employees for defense plants. Later he worked tireless hours with the Disabled American Veterans and toured overseas to bring hope to young men who had suffered similar losses.

All of these disabled young men told Mays how much they wanted to work and reclaim some productivity in their lives. In subsequent years, Mays was able to apply this principal equally to disabled civilians.

Mays always said, “The greatest satisfaction of my life has been the establishment of Mays Mission for the Handicapped which provides jobs and job training for so many handicapped folks. Our objective is to apply good, sound Christian ethics and principals to help our handicapped employees achieve economic stability and independence in their lives.”

We are committed to the vision of Ewing W. Mays. It has been 50 years since he founded Mays Mission for the Handicapped and we continue his work but we can’t do it without you. For more information on how you can help, please call us at 888-503-7955  or email us at info@maysmission.org today. And if you would like to donate to Mays Mission you can click the ‘Donate’ button on this page, we accept donations through paypal.

Thank you for supporting people with disabilities!

Ewing W. Mays with President Truman

We are so proud of Kinshuk!

Here at Mays Mission we are always so proud of the eager young students you help through your support of our scholarship program.

Kinshuk Tella is one of those extraordinary kids. And thanks to YOU, this rising star is pursuing his dream of higher education — and a future in which he makes incredible contributions to society — despite his disability.

A student at Miami University, Kinshuk is working toward a double degree in Environmental Science and Energy.

“I wish to be something much bigger than myself — that being the work and science toward preserving the natural world,” he says. “I can have the most impact with my work in a career such as [the public sector] … making more of a difference in sustainability efforts.”

Always seeking to do more, this inspirational young man maintains a high GPA … serves on a community leadership team … conducts meaningful geoscience research … In addition to his academic success, this inspiring young man serves as president of the Ohio Association of Blind Students, advocates on behalf of the blind community through the National Federation of the Blind, and teaches kids in a special needs marching band program that we were also able to help because of your kindness. 

What most people don’t realize is Kinshuk has Stargardt’s disease and is legally blind. Stargardt’s is a genetic disease that causes vision loss — and, unfortunately, there is no cure. But he’s never let his disability keep him from accomplishing whatever he sets his mind to … and his accomplishments are a testament to that. In fact, he’s one of the most accomplished young men we’ve had the pleasure of meeting!

Kinshuk has had to overcome many hurdles throughout his life because of his disability, but he has never let it keep him from accomplishing whatever he sets his mind to.

“He has put in hours of hard work … and I have never heard him complain once about his disability. He excels at whatever obstacle he faces,” says Kinshuk’s intervention specialist from high school.

Kinshuk has recently let us know he is currently prepping for this summer where he will be working for Tesla, the world’s most successful electric vehicle and clean energy company. The sky is the limit for Kinshuk. And you play a role in supporting this extraordinary guy. I hope his success and desire to pay it forward and help others brings you as much joy as it does us. If you would like to know more about our scholarship program for disabled students call or email us at info@maysmission.org for a free copy of our brochure “Preparing for College – Grants & Scholarships” and thank you for your support of Mays Mission’s scholarship program. And if you would like to donate, we accept donations through paypal here on our website and through facebook pay on the Mays Mission for the Handicapped facebook page. Thanks again!

“He is not here… for He is risen.”

The accounts of the resurrection of Christ described in the New Testament show several different reactions by the followers of Jesus. The women who went to the tomb early in the morning of the third day were frightened when they heard the angel say, “He is not here, He has risen.” The significance of what the angel told them did not sink into their minds. They were not only frightened but confused and bewildered by what they saw. They did not understand. Later on, when Peter came to the tomb, even he was not completely sure of what was going on. The disciples did not fully understand what had happened and one, Thomas, would go so far as to say, “I won’t believe in the resurrection unless I can see Him and touch Him.”

Eventually the followers of Jesus came to accept and believe that the resurrection was real and that Jesus was indeed alive! The savior appeared to many of them on several occasions following the discovery of the empty tomb. And Thomas had his opportunity to see and touch the wounds that Jesus bore.

But in this world today, we do not have an empty tomb to visit. We do not have others around us who have witnessed in person what happened in those days following the death of our Lord. We have only the written Word of God in the Bible to tell us about this glorious event. So everything we know and feel about the empty tomb is arrived by what we read and by our personal convictions and faith.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ, as exemplified by the empty tomb, is the single greatest event in the history of the world. The great Christmas story of His birth or any of the wonderful stories of His time on earth or the accounts of the horrible way he died, all must defer to the resurrection. For if Christ had not been raised from the dead nothing else would have mattered. By showing mankind His authority over the grave, God demonstrated once and for all His majesty, His power, and most of all, His Love for each human being.

During this “Resurrection” season each of us should pause and ask ourselves, “How do I react to the empty tomb?” Are we confused by it? Are we confused by it? Do we see it as simply a time to dress up and go to church? Do we see it as an opportunity to color and hide eggs so the children can have a fun time? Or do we see the empty tomb for what it really is – evidence of God’s love and grace for each of us.

We here at Mays Mission for the Handicapped would like to thank you for all that you do for the disabled. If you would like to help out in your community call us or email us at info@maysmission.org for information on how you can help. We can provide you with brochures free of charge. You can also donate to us through paypal by clicking the donate button on this page. Thanks again for you support!

Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

What can we do to improve the lives of others, especially those with disabilities?

The dictionary describes an “advocate” as one who publicly supports or suggests an idea, development or way of doing something.

Here at Mays Mission, our primary goal is to aid and assist people with disabilities. Yes, putting to work those who may have difficulty finding gainful employment is one facet of our purpose yet there is so much more.

Public education regarding the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities is of utmost importance. You see, through our various programs and outreaches, we have the opportunity to inform and educate the public throughout the country that given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.

Through our On-The-Job Training Program we have seen scores of people with a variety of disabilities come and go here at Mays Mission while others have chosen to stay with us. It’s heartwarming to know that some have bought their own homes, learned to drive and purchased automobiles, while some have moved on to bigger and better opportunities. Seeing people succeed and become more independent where at one time hope seemed lost is an indescribable feeling. This On-The-Job Training Program is only possible because of the kind hearts of our donors.

This is a special year for us here at Mays Mission. It’s our 50th year anniversary and we’ve set a goal: to aid and assist people with disabilities. Won’t you please join us?  Call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org to learn more about our programs and see how you can be an advocate for people with disabilities. We have a variety of brochures that were produced by disabled employees right here at Mays Mission that you can distribute in your community to help raise awareness. And if you would like to donate, we accept donations through Paypal, just click the donate button on this page. Thank you so much for your help in our 50th year of serving the disabled!

Some kind words from our friends…

We often get little hand written notes from our donors and people we have helped letting us know how much they appreciate us and thanking us for our service. Sometimes they write the notes on the notepads we mail out to our donors that are printed and assembled by disabled workers here at Mays Mission. We thought we would share some of these kind words from our wonderful friends:

To: Mays Mission,

Thank you for helping us in our time of need! We appreciate all you have done. We are so impressed with the way Mays Mission has helped not only my family but so many others. Mays Mission is truly a blessing to our community. Thank you again.

Sincerely,

Lori A.

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You’re doing a wonderful service – Bless your organization! Peace of the Lord be with all of your staff this holiday season.

Warm Regards,

Roger

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Thank you for all you do.! God loves you and so do we! Praying for you. Please read inside for a blessing.

God bless you for helping disabled people get a job. Getting disabled people able to take care of themselves is good too.

Sincerely,

Mark E.

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Best Wishes to all your endeavors to reach out to and help handicapped people.        

Sincerely,

J.C.

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Dear Sherry,

Please tell Keith I like the pad and two bookmarks. I like the Sue Williams and Eleanor Rooselvelt sayings and the bookmarks will not crumble after the first use. I will enjoy them!

Thank You!

Shirley H.

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To all the staff at Mays Mission:

Over these last 10 years your mailed inspirational and Christian thoughts have been a blessing to me – Especially the “New Hope” booklet. I hope you have two extra copies to send me to share with family members. Thank  you and God bless you in your priceless gifts to thousands..

The Saunders

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Dear Jessica,

I would like to say thank you for sending me the address books I’ve requested and the history of your company. It was a wonderful newsletter. We always have hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.  Each day is a day that God has given us, and each moment of that day is in His hands. I will always keep you and your staff in my prayers and may this new year bring with it good health, peace and joy to all of you!

Riley

P.S. I loved the Collection of Special Verses

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Sherry,

Thank you for my Friends and Family Address book – very useful and nice. Thank your workers for me, OK?

 Dorothy

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I praise you for your wonderful work. Thank you for your gifts.

Sincerely,       

Lois H.

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Thank you for sending the “Friends & Family Address Book” for my phone calls. Life’s fast and I’m a little slow! The Pocket Calendar is perfect for my purse.

Thanks Again,

Michelle

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I hope that this donation will help you in all your good work. You will be rewarded in a big way someday. I just read your booklet “New Hope”. God Bless you and keep you safe.

Love,

Eleanor

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We here at Mays Mission get little notes and messages like this all the time and we appreciate the kind words so much! And we appreciate our donors so much too! If you would like information on how you can help the disabled in your community please call us at 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today. And if you would like to donate just click the ‘Donate’ button. We accept donations through Paypal. Thanks so much!

Have A Heart

February is “Heart Awareness Month” and Valentine’s Day brings to mind a time to show our love to those we care about. In addition, February has become associated with the Random Acts of Kindness program. Random acts of kindness are especially appreciated by caregivers, the elderly and those in hospitals and nursing homes.


Here are some suggestions to make this a special time of year. Most can be adapted to individuals as well as the various care facilities in your community. Just check with any care facilities you want to volunteer at on Covid restrictions first:


Volunteer to read out loud to individuals or care facility groups.


Drop in for a chat and bring a treat such as a ready-to-heat casserole.


Arrange for a two-hour housecleaning session.


Volunteer to take an elderly neighbor out to run errands.


Send scenic postcards to patients in a local care facility that don’t have any relatives.


If you have musical talents, volunteer to lead a sing-along session at a local care facility.


Enjoy baking? Drop off a plate of cookies or some cupcakes.


Enjoy gardening? Help a neighbor plant or weed their garden.

And remember any help you can offer to a full-time caregiver is always appreciated!


For more great ideas on how you can help in your community call us toll free at 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today. We also have free brochures that we can send you and you can share with others. Thank you for your support!

Mays Mission is celebrating its fiftieth year!

Mays Mission is celebrating our fiftieth year of serving the disabled in 2022. Our goals at Mays Mission for the Handicapped were set over 50 years ago by our founder, Ewing W. Mays.

Ewing W. Mays lost both of his legs, as a young man, in WW II. He spent many months in the hospital. After numerous surgeries and much rehabilitation, he learned how to walk on artificial limbs. He realized that during his time in the hospital not one person with a similar disability had visited him. He decided that he would be the person who would visit those who were facing the same situation he had faced. That is exactly what Ewing W. Mays did.  And his first goal was attained.

To help pay for his tours of veterans and rehabilitation hospitals he depended on the donations of others, who he reached by direct mail.  Out of those donations, he had to pay his travel expenses, and, on top of that, he had to pay others to produce his mail pieces. What if he could train and hire other persons with disabilities to print his mail pieces, and do the mailings? Thus Mays Mission for the Handicapped was born and the goal of training and employing persons with disabilities through our on-the-job training program was set in to motion.

Over the years, we have added other programs besides veterans home tours and on-the-job training, such as our summer camperships for people with disabilities. These campership programs make it possible disabled youth and adults to enjoy things like fishing, camping, hiking and other fun in the sun activities that their able-bodied peers can take for granted. And don’t forget about our scholarship program for aspiring disabled young people who want to broaden their horizons and have same futures afforded to everyone else.

We would not be celebrating this fiftieth year milestone of serving the disabled and educating the public without the support of our loyal donors. Over the years we have set the goals, but we only attain them with your help and generosity. Besides the kindness of your much appreciated donations, you can help by raising awareness in your community. We can provide you with free brochures to help. And if you would like some of our gift paks to distribute to nursing homes or veterans homes in your area (check with these institutions on covid regulations first), we would be happy to send some gift paks to you. Just call us toll free at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today! We are truly blessed to have your support and we thank you!

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