We (Ahmer, mom, dad, and college-age sister) moved to Virginia in October 2012. One of the reasons we moved to Virginia was for more support for Ahmar, so I immediately got connected to groups that served kids like him. Jill’s House came up quite a few times in several of the emails I started receiving about opportunities for parents like us here! I heard over and over again what a great organization Jill’s House was. Everyone who mentioned Jill’s House spoke so highly of everyone involved!

Because of all this affirmation, we were very excited to come and visit—once we started getting job offers in the area, we came to tour the building. Even from the outside of the building, it is clear Jill’s House has a very organized system, and that set our minds at ease. That organization of the systems you have in place has remained consistent, from check-in to how well the staff follow Ahmer’s behavioral plan. Those routines and structure help Ahmer understand that he can be relaxed and enjoy his time away from us. Jill’s House was definitely a factor in our decision to move to the Tysons area!

Ahmer has a hard time adjusting to anything—but started feeling comfortable at Jill’s House very quickly. Every time we talk about coming to Jill’s House, Ahmer is able to communicate that he is excited to go.

He is nonverbal but communicates his excitement in every other way possible—his face and all his body language absolutely light up! Ahmer’s favorites at Jill’s House include the playfulness of the caregivers, the one-to-one attention, and spaces like the sensory room. Since joining this community, Jill’s House has taught us new things that he enjoys. For instance, Ahmer started pool lessons once a week because we realized how much he loves the pool at Jill’s House!

We have no family around us at all in America, so the support you offer could not be more appreciated or needed. The way-out take care of these kids is what makes you unique–you show that you are genuinely interested. Even today, we’ve received two emails from Jill’s House to check in on us and to confirm two upcoming stays. Just reading those emails was a breath of fresh air. Your faith clearly makes this place what it is.

My life has definitely changed since we came to Jill’s House, and we felt how much Jill’s House has changed it for the better once COVID hit and Ahmer couldn’t come for those four months. Weare so grateful to be back again after all the time apart. You are wonderful, amazing, and selfless. I believe every family at Jill’s House is extremely grateful for you.