Joe Stone, The Point/ARC's prominent figure with a compassionate heart, brightens up people's days
In a heartfelt tribute to his late brother Danny, who was born with Down Syndrome, Joe Stone has launched an initiative called "Big Shot for a Night". This charitable endeavour, designed to provide unforgettable experiences for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families, is now seeking a 501c3 nonprofit exemption.
"Big Shot for a Night" is a project close to Joe Stone's heart, as Danny was a fixture at Newport Catholic during his childhood. To honour his brother's memory, Joe Stone started this initiative, aiming to create opportunities for individuals between the ages of 10 and 29 who attend The Point/Arc, with a family income of $75,000 or less.
The Point/Arc, a well-known organisation that supports individuals with I/DD and their families, has provided significant support for "Big Shot for a Night". They have helped set up nominations and decide who will be the monthly "Big Shot" for the initiative. The Point/Arc also offers design, literature, and website support to ensure the success of "Big Shot for a Night".
The first prize for "Big Shot for a Night" was a night at a Cincinnati Reds baseball game. Since then, Joe Stone has been working to arrange a night at a Cincinnati soccer match and a gala dinner at one of Jeff Ruby's restaurants for future prizes. "Big Shot for a Night" offers experiences such as attending major sporting events, live performances, dining at top local restaurants, and exploring the city.
Nominations for "Big Shot for a Night" come from teachers, instructors, and family members of the individuals involved. Joe Stone's mother has also been a vital supporter of the initiative. Despite planning to retire in about two or two-and-a-half years, Joe Stone is determined to continue with "Big Shot for a Night" after retirement.
Joe Stone's connection to sports was a significant release for him during his time in the military. This passion for sports led him to take Danny to various sports games, Notre Dame football games, and World Wrestling Federation matches. The unforgettable experiences provided by "Big Shot for a Night" aim to create similar memories for individuals with I/DD and their families.
Upon winning "Big Shot for a Night", The Point/Arc contacts the individual winner's family to provide further information about the prize. The initiative has already provided numerous unforgettable experiences, and Joe Stone continues to work tirelessly to expand its reach and impact.
"Big Shot for a Night" initiative, launched by Joe Stone in memory of his late brother Danny, is a 501c3 nonprofit seeking exemption. It offers unforgettable experiences to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) aged 10-29 from families with an income of $75,000 or less, supported by The Point/Arc organization.
The first prize was a Cincinnati Reds baseball game, with plans for future prizes including a Cincinnati soccer match and a gala dinner at Jeff Ruby's restaurants. "Big Shot for a Night" experiences include major sporting events, live performances, dining at top local restaurants, and exploring the city.
Nominations for this initiative come from teachers, instructors, and family members, with Joe Stone's mother playing a vital role. Joe Stone, despite planning to retire in a couple of years, has expressed his determination to continue "Big Shot for a Night" post-retirement.
Joe Stone's passion for sports, developed during his military service, inspired his endeavour to create similar unforgettable experiences for individuals with I/DD and their families through this initiative.
