When intellectually disabled students reach the age of 22, they’re cut off from state funding that provided them with an education and vocational skills. Many don’t know where to turn, but in Geneva, The Joshua Tree Community is changing that.

Former special education teacher Amy Singer founded The Joshua Tree Community in 2014 and has worked with volunteers to create a program that incorporates learning, fitness and recreation. Intellectually disabled individuals pay $50 per day to participate.

“They’re the best students you could have,” Singer, a St. Charles resident, said.

“I get to spend time with my friends and I get to learn how to do new things,” participant Hollie Konrady said.

Read more about The Joshua Tree Community in today’s Neighbor section.