I Can’t Wait for What Comes Next: A letter from PHAME student JJ & his mom, Connie

CONNIE: When we found PHAME in 2012, we didn’t have a clue as to the journey JJ would take here.

JJ: I just wanted to do some art and to act at PHAME.

CONNIE: We had heard of PHAME before, but we finally saw PHAME’s performance of Willy Wonka, all of us—me, J, his sister and his dad—all knew this was the place. We were all so impressed with the inclusion, quality and superb performances.

JJ signed up that fall. It seemed like things couldn’t be better!

JJ worked. On days off he took classes at PHAME. He was busy and enjoying life. The family would travel to see JJ perform.

JJ: I liked Musical Theater and I liked to draw comic books. My favorite is Voice Acting and Art, actually. I loved PHAME and I wanted to learn and to be with my friends, too.

CONNIE: Then Covid hit.

JJ: My life was when I loved PHAME. I wanted to be with friends and do art class, Radio Drama, Improv, and Costume Design.

CONNIE: PHAME was what helped JJ get through the isolation. PHAME was there for JJ when he most needed it, in the isolation of the early pandemic and when JJ’s dad died.

It gave him a lifeline—something other than being locked in the house. And the wild thing is, as much as PHAME gave JJ then, the best is yet to come.

That’s why we’re writing to you today, to ask you to support the brilliant futures that JJ and all the students at PHAME have ahead of them.

Your support makes a real difference for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. JJ and I hope you’ll consider making a contribution of $100 or more. And when you make your contribution by June 30, you help PHAME—JJ and all the students here—start the next year on solid footing.

During Covid, JJ became very dependent on me when his dad died. But now, that time is past, and he is coming back.

JJ: I’m independent to take a bus to PHAME and to be on time for our PHAME classes. No one tells me to get ready or to go.

CONNIE: His life is good. And now, he’s on to his next PHAME project—he’s the choreographer for this summer’s show.

JJ: I love to be a choreographer. The best part is teaching them how to dance. I feel happy to teach them how to dance, actually.

I want to show you how it’s done—I make a video and I practice it. First, a couple of times. Then I teach my friends how to dance, and we will show them a full show. It will be the greatest dance show ever and forever. I will show people an awesome show.

CONNIE: JJ is so proud to be working for PHAME and taking it very seriously. He’s back to his old self, but it’s more than that—he’s got a new kick in his step.

I can’t wait to see his show. And I can’t wait to see what JJ does next at PHAME.

With your support, I know it will be incredible.

JJ: It feels good. It’s hard and good work.

PHAME is about passion and love and life, actually. When I do my art with my friends, I feel happiness—and joyful.

CONNIE: We hope you will make a difference for adults with developmental disabilities. You can call (503) 764-9178 ext. 14 or donate online.

JJ’s life is so different from what we imagined when we came to PHAME years ago, and it’s only getting better. Please make your contribution today.

Sincerely,

JJ Ross, PHAME Student
Connie Ross, PHAME Parent

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