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Programs

Empowering Futures: The Importance of Scholarships for Students with Disabilities at Mays Mission for the Handicapped

Photos of Mays Mission scholarship recipients

At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we believe that education is a powerful tool that can transform lives. For students with disabilities, access to quality education can open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed. That’s why our scholarship program is not just a financial aid initiative; it’s a commitment to empowering these students to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.

Breaking Down Barriers

Education can often present unique challenges for students with disabilities. From navigating physical accessibility to overcoming societal misconceptions, these students face hurdles that can hinder their academic journey. Our scholarships are designed to break down these barriers, providing financial support that helps cover tuition, educational materials, and other essential resources. By alleviating some of the financial burdens, we enable students to focus on their studies and personal growth.

Fostering Independence and Confidence

Receiving a scholarship is more than just financial assistance; it’s a vote of confidence in the abilities of these students. Our scholarship program fosters independence by encouraging students to pursue a higher education that aligns with their interests and goals. This sense of empowerment can significantly boost their self-esteem, motivating them to strive for success in their academic and professional endeavors.

Creating Future Leaders

Investing in the education of students with disabilities is an investment in the future. Many scholarship recipients go on to become leaders, advocates, and change-makers in their communities. By providing them with the resources they need to succeed academically, we are helping to cultivate a generation that will challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and drive positive change for individuals with disabilities.

Let Them Shine!

At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, our scholarship program is a vital part of our commitment to empowering students with disabilities. We recognize the importance of education in shaping futures and are proud to support these remarkable individuals on their journey. As we continue to provide scholarships, we invite our community to join us in this mission—whether through donations, advocacy, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can help ensure that every student with a disability has the opportunity to shine and make their mark on the world.

Photos of Mays Mission Scholarship recipients

Learn to accept a person and their disability as one, not two things.

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Programs

Mays Mission for the Handicapped’s New Donor Management Software

photos of our founder EW Mays, Mays Mission employees with disabilites, campers from our summer camp program and a student from our scholarship program

In the ever-evolving landscape of nonprofit organizations, adaptability is key to continuing our mission of supporting individuals with disabilities. At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we have always strived to enhance our operational efficiency and improve the donor experience. Recently, we faced a significant transition: after 25 years, we had to switch our donor management software due to its cancellation. While change can be daunting, we are excited about the opportunities this new chapter brings.

The decision to move away from our long-standing software was not made lightly. For over two decades, it served us well, helping us connect with our donors and manage contributions effectively. However, as technology advances, we recognize the importance of staying current to better serve our community. Our new donor management software offers a fresh, user-friendly interface and improved functionality that aligns with our mission.

This new software came with a new online donation form as well. It’s a little different than the old form but this streamlined tool simplifies the donation process for our supporters, making it easier than ever to contribute to our cause. With just a few clicks, donors can now make their contributions online, ensuring a seamless experience that encourages generosity.

You can find the new donation form here:

Donation Form

Enhancing Donor Engagement

The new software not only enhances the donation process but also strengthens our relationship with our donors. With improved tracking and reporting capabilities, we can better understand our supporters’ preferences and tailor our communications accordingly. This means more personalized updates, acknowledgments, and opportunities for engagement, fostering a deeper connection between our mission and those who support it.

Looking Ahead

As we embrace this change, we are filled with optimism for the future. The transition to new donor management software represents more than just an upgrade; it symbolizes our commitment to innovation and our dedication to serving individuals with disabilities more effectively. We believe that with these changes, we can amplify our impact and continue to make strides in our mission.

We invite our supporters to explore our new donation form and experience the enhanced features firsthand. Your contributions are vital to our work, and we are grateful for your continued support as we embark on this exciting journey.

A word to our donors:

At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we understand that change can bring challenges, but it also opens doors to new possibilities. We are thrilled about the advancements our new donor management software brings and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our organization and the individuals we serve. Thank you for being a part of our mission and for supporting us as we navigate this exciting transition.

 At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we are profoundly grateful for our donors, whose unwavering support and advocacy have been instrumental in our mission to empower individuals with disabilities. Many of our dedicated supporters have been with us for over forty years, standing by our side through every challenge and triumph. Their generosity not only fuels our programs but also amplifies the voices of those we serve, helping to create a more inclusive and equitable society. We deeply appreciate each contribution, as it reflects a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those in need, and we cannot thank our donors enough for their enduring partnership.

Photos of Mays Mission Employees with disabilities in our job training program and campers in our summer camp program
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Programs

“Who Were Those Wise Men?”

Photos of Mays Mission employees from our job training program, a traditional painting of the three wise men

Here at Mays Mission, we love to receive Christmas cards from our friends. We tape them up on the walls for decoration so everyone can enjoy them. Many of the Christmas cards will have the manger scene which almost always includes the star above the manger. Some will have the three wise men, or Magi, or kings, bringing their gifts to baby Jesus. But just who are those three guys? We did a little research just so we can tell you what we learned about them.


The Bible tells about these “Magi” in Matthew. Here’s what we know for certain:

They were astrologers.


They came from the east.

They recognized the new star as fulfillment of ancient prophecy proclaiming that the long-awaited Messiah had finally come to earth.
They traveled thousands of miles to bring gifts to the new-born Messiah and to worship him.


That’s about it! Tradition and history can add some possibilities of great interest concerning these Magi. The Magi were a religious caste and one of the six tribes of Media (an ancient kingdom located in what is now northern Iran). Our modern day word magician comes from the magi because they were known for practicing magic. They also interpreted omens and dreams and offered astrological sacrifices. Before Jesus, they worshiped only the elements, fire, air, earth and water, especially fire.


We don’t really know how many of them there were. Scholars based the “three” on their three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh they brought with them to give to baby Jesus. These men were truly wise men because they went looking for God. They didn’t expect God to come looking for them. They recognized baby Jesus as the Messiah for the entire world—not just for the Jews. They took gifts to the Messiah—they didn’t expect God to give them gifts.


Those who are wise still seek and worship Jesus today, not for what they can get—but for who He is.


The family of Mays Mission wishes you and your family a Merry Christmas. If you would like to help us advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities in your area call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we can send you free brochures to pass out in your community. These brochures were produced by individuals with disabilities here at Mays Mission.

Mays Mission Employees with disabilities working in our bindery department

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Programs

The Greatest Gift

A Mays Mission employee with Christmas cards and an 'employer of the year' award in the background. A painting of Baby Jesus in the Manger

It’s that time of year again – the Christmas season. The brightly colored autumn leaves have fallen to the ground, announcing a time of rest and relaxation for many living things. We’ve stuffed ourselves with juicy Thanksgiving turkey and loads of luscious desserts from our bountiful buffets. People are putting up the Christmas decorations and the malls are calling for us to come and shop.

In all the hustle and bustle, let’s not forget the “reason for the season,” the birth of Jesus. He came to us just as foretold by prophets of old (Isaiah 7:14). Without his birth, there would have been no atonement for sin. We would still be sacrificing bulls, lambs and doves – presenting our sins to a high priest once a year. If He hadn’t come we would be unable to enter the most holy place – the throne room of God – are present out prayers and petitions (Hebrews 4:15, 16). He came that we might have abundant life (John 10:10).

As we enter this holiday season, let’s not forget those who might have difficulty getting out and about. Offer a ride to a friend with a disability or someone who may have difficulty navigating a shopping center or mall. Offer to shop for someone who may be unable to get out for whatever reason. A little kindness and friendliness and a show of care and compassion may be just the ticket to make someone’s Christmas time a little more stress-free.

I can think of no better verse – no better gift, than what is the quoted scripture: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes on Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

God bless you all! And thank you for supporting people with disabilities!

A Mays Mission employee from our job training program with a Christmas decoration at the workstation.
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Programs

Serving

Mays Mission employees in our job training program for individuals with disabilities, a Thanksgiving turkey

It may seem like a trite statement to say that “we have so much to be thankful for,” as we hear it every year around the Thanksgiving dinner table. Yet, for the vast majority of US citizens, this statement holds undeniably true. We live in a land birthed in freedom from tyranny that continues on to this day.

Some friends of mine have a tradition of going to a “food kitchen” on Thanksgiving Day to assist in serving the homeless and those who just can’t afford a hot meal. They tell me of how humbling it is to see these folks wander in off the streets for a hot meal. It makes them feel so blessed to have a roof over their head and food on the table. In doing the kind deed of helping others, just as Christ told us to do, they come away from the food kitchen feeling abundantly blessed for being obedient to the call of serving.

In hearing this, let’s consider doing likewise. It doesn’t necessarily need to be a food kitchen. There are a myriad of ways to serve your fellow man in this day or any other day to give thanks for the bounty with which God has blessed you. Invite someone over for a meal. Offer to take them shopping or to get to an appointment. Run some errands for them. Invite them to church. Often just a smile or a handshake will brighten someone’s day!

There are countless ways to “love your neighbor.” Think about what you could do, then put those thoughts into action.

If you would like information on disabilities, please call 888-503-7955, write, or email info@maysmission.org. We have a variety of brochures that we offer at no charge.

Have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving!

Various photos including Mays Mission founder Ewing W. Mays saluting, Mays employees with disabilities, a photo of a camper in our summer camp program and a Mays Mission scholarship recipient
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Programs

Volunteerism

Photos of Mays Mission volunteers visiting residents at nursing homes and veterans homes

We can’t say enough about the importance of volunteerism. Ask any hospital, nonprofit organization or civic related agency and they will attest to the fact that volunteerism is their backbone, strength and support.

 Volunteers do everything from answering the phone to driving busses and anything in between. Even professionals such as doctors, dentists and counselors often provide their services to clinics that offer care to low income families and individuals. Lawyers and paralegals often devote a certain amount of their time to those who could not afford their services on a walk-in basis. Volunteers often get out and do the leg-work that administrators just don’t have the time to do.

There are a vast variety of volunteer opportunities in every community. One of the advantages of giving your time is the array of work to do. Whatever your talents are, more than likely an organization in your community would be willing to put you to work using your skills.

So, what do you need to do to find out if you can assist an organization in your community? It’s as simple as calling and asking. Better yet, go to the agency and ask them personally if there is something you can do.

Looking for something a little out of the ordinary? Call your state office of volunteerism. They should be able to give you a variety of places that are always looking for people to assist. You can also turn to the Internet. Just type in the state or city you live in along with the word “volunteerism.”

Helping others is always rewarding. Become a volunteer today. You will see new faces, make new friends and feel better about yourself for what you’ve done for others from your heart!

If you would like more information call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for a free copy of our brochure “The Spirit Of Volunteerism” today and please feel free to share in the comments section. Thanks!

beautiful picture of a man in a wheelchair facing the sunrise with a Walt Whitman quote: 'Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you.'
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Programs

Change and Attitude

Mays Mission founder saluting, photos of past Mays Mission employees with disabilities

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 habits, lifestyle; physical, mental or spiritual 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 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 would like free brochures to pass out in your community and help raise awareness on behalf of individuals with disabilities, call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we would be glad to send some to you.

An employee in Mays Mission's on-the-job training program for people with disabilities and a Mays Mission scholarship recipient
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Programs

Vacation Time

An individual in a wheelchair at the airport

Everyone needs a break from the hustle and bustle of his or her everyday routine. Whether you are working a 40-hour a week job, being a house-mom, volunteering or even retired, we all like to get out and get away from our usual environment and take a vacation. Trips to the big city, camping, theme parks and national and state parks are just a few of the multitude of possibilities for a family vacation.

For people with disabilities, just a smidgen of planning ahead can prevent heartbreak, disappointment and potentially risky situations. Most attractions, such as theme and national parks have made their sites accessible to the disabled thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Yet, due to a variety of issues and unforeseen circumstances, what is available to the able-bodied individual may vary somewhat from what is available to the disabled traveler.

When making hotel/motel reservations, always ask the manager of the facility to describe “handicapped” rooms. What works for the “average” traveler may not work for you. In my travels across the nation, it’s not uncommon to reserve a room only to find out that my wheelchair cannot get through the bathroom door. There’s no such thing as “over planning.”

If flying, try to take very necessary items with you in your carry-on luggage. Especially remember your essential medications. If your regular luggage should happen to get lost or end up on another flight, you will probably be a little more at ease.

 For more information on vacationing with disabilities, call 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for our brochure, “The Disabled Traveler.” Have fun and be safe!

Mays Mission employees from our job training program, pictures of our founder Ewing Mays visiting with wounded veterans "It's ability, not disability, that counts" - A quote from Ewing Mays

Encourage businesses in you area to hire individuals with disabilities! Call us for brochures to pass out to employers in your community and help us spread the word!

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Programs

Good Neighbors

A former Mays Mission employee playing wheelchair tennis, campers from our summer camp program outdoors having fun

The sweltering heat of summer is upon us.  Record-breaking temperatures have already hit the northeast.  We, here in the south, are always anticipating the “dog-days” of summer-but few can honestly say they enjoy the heat indices commonly above 105.

A healthy able-bodied person may go to the lake for a swim or take a cool dip in a pool.  So refreshing and what a relief!  Yet, for many with disabilities these options are not available.  Therefore, one must take precautions not to get overheated in this volatile time of the year.  It is common for people with spinal cord injuries not to have the ability to perspire, which is the body’s natural cooling system.  Also, as some people age their skin loses elastins (elasticity) thus keeping the skin taut.  This, in turn, causes the body not to perspire as it should.  Over-heating leads to heat-stroke and heat-stroke may lead to death. 

 As friends and neighbors, make it a point to call or visit a friend with a disability or the elderly especially if they are without air conditioning or live alone.  Maybe you could invite them over for a cool sip of lemonade.  Sound silly?  Please do not feel that way.  This not only shows your caring and concern, you may save a life.  Do your part to help us all make it through the dog-days of summer! 

Think about it!

Call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for informational brochures like “Heat Wave – Heat Protection Safety” to show how you can help. These brochures were printed by individuals with disabilities and we provide them to the public free of charge. Thank you and God bless your kind heart!

photos of individuals with disabilities engaged in out door activities including a former employee playing wheelchair tennis and campers from our summer camp program
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Programs

Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

Mays Mission employees with disabilities "We're Changing Lives!" and a camper from a Mays Mission sponsored summer camp

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 direct mail, 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.

If you would like more information on becoming an advocate for people with disabilities we have free brochures like “The Spirit Of Volunteerism” or “On-The-Job Training” that were produced by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission. Just call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org and we will send some out to you. Thank you for your support!

A photo from a Mays Mission sponsored summer camp program with campers and a volunteer engaging in fun activities