The Different Needz Foundation, a 501(C)(3) charitable organization, was created in 2009 and inspired by the life of Luke Jordan. Luke was born with developmental disabilities which caused many physical disabilities and medical conditions. Despite these challenges, Luke was able to bring out the best in those who knew him.

Many individuals with developmental disabilities; such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism and Down Syndrome, require regular physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and/or behavioral therapy. Durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, braces, and gait trainers may also be necessary to support and teach basic physical functions. Properly caring for an individual with developmental disabilities is extraordinarily expensive. Medical insurance usually covers only one third of the necessary therapy services and a limited amount of medical equipment per year. Many families are not financially able to obtain the additional therapy and/or equipment, thus leaving the individual without the opportunity to reach his or her maximum potential and in some cases, their condition worsens.

The Foundation defines “developmental disability” as a severe, chronic disability that:

• • is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or a combination  of mental and physical impairments,
  • manifests before age ten,
  • is likely to continue indefinitely,
  • results in at least one developmental delay or an established risk, and
  • causes an individual to require a combination and sequence of special care, treatment, or provision of services for an extended period of time.

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The Different Needz Foundation helps individuals with developmental disabilities obtain the necessary equipment and medical services they need to have the best quality of life. Grant applications are made available in January of each year with grant decisions announced to award recipients in May. The Foundation considers future needs and provides payment for medical services or equipment directly to the provider.

The Foundation’s main source of funding comes from the proceeds of its annual Luke Jordan Memorial Golf Outing, Dinner & Silent Auction.

The inaugural Luke Jordan Memorial Golf Outing, Reception & Silent Auction was held in September 2009. Over 90 golfers played in a scramble format at Tanglewood National Golf Course, followed by a reception and silent auction attended by many friends and family members. By 2011, the field of golfers grew to 134 and included new supporters who enjoyed an evening of food, drink and fundraising at Acacia Country Club. As the event continued to grow, the Foundation moved the golf outing, dinner & silent auction events to the Chagrin Valley Country Club. In 2018, the Foundation hosted another successful outing at StoneWater Golf Club.

In nine years, the Foundation has awarded over $300,000 in individual and organization grants. These grants have helped over 400 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, as well as many organizations whose work supports the Foundation’s mission. Grants have included a variety of services and equipment such as; physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical equipment, wheelchairs and lifts, adaptive bicycles/strollers/car seats, specialized summer camps and other necessary items. The Foundation’s reach has grown to include recipients across the country with approximately 30 percent of grants awarded to recipients in NE Ohio.

The Foundation receives hundreds of grant applications each year and aspires to grow into a nationally recognized charitable organization. The Board of Trustees consists of volunteers as every dollar raised is used towards fulfilling its mission. It is our hope that one day, all applicants will receive a grant for a service or piece of equipment that will change their life. Join us in reaching this goal and make a donation today.

Board of Trustees

President: Jennifer Brunton

Treasurer: Karen Jordan

Secretary: Jill Maksoudian

 

Kevin S. Adelstein

Anne Etienne

Dr. Amy Kassouf

Bret Jordan

Kristine Jordan

Michelle Petrillo

Owen Sweeney

 

Peter Bern, Board Member Emeritus

 

Contact Us

Different Needz Foundation
8584 E. Washington #122, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
(216) 904-5151
info@differentneedzfoundation.org