Who Are We
Joining the Pieces Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation comprised of volunteers focused on championing the well-being of adults with special needs such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, etc. We are passionate about improving the quality of life for these unique individuals by coming alongside organizations that share our hopes and values.
What We Do
Joining the Pieces Foundation's mission is to connect the generous gifts of donors to only the most exceptional charities that focus on the development of adults with special needs. This often results in those with disabilities leading lives full of increased significance, public engagement and even employment.
​
This year we partnered with A-list Apartment Staffing, in Dallas, Texas, a staffing agency that offers staffing solutions for commercial properties and the apartment industry. They provided us with a gift of $5,000. We will be able to increase our grants from $2,000 to $2,500 for 2022.
Community Impact 2022
Joining the Pieces Foundation helps fund organizations like Bee Happy Day Hab in Kaufman, Texas, a day program that assists adults with developmental disabilities in reaching their potential through hands-on activities that challenge and empower them. Busy Bee’s will learn to maximize their independence by learning daily living skills.
We also granted Marbridge in Manchaca, TX. In 1953, Ed and Marge Bridges founded Marbridge in an effort to create safe residential care for their son, Jim, and other adults with cognitive disabilities. From the beginning, Marbridge charted a dramatically different course compared to the institutions of the day.
Today, 275 adult residents live and work on the Marbridge campus where adults with intellectual disabilities are given unparalleled opportunities to learn, experience, and achieve a whole new life.
​
We are very proud of the work these organizations do for the special needs adult community.
​
​
Founder
Joining the Pieces exists in response to the personal experience of Kristina Summers. As the parent of a son with autism, Kristina worried about what would happen to her son once he grew up. She heard stories of widespread abuse in state hospitals. She also heard of special needs adults just existing in the care of their parents or day programs. She strongly believes they are capable of doing something to contribute to their community.
​
When Kristina’s son graduated high school, she envisioned Joining the Pieces as a way to be part of the solution to the problem facing special needs adults. This vision is what compelled Kristina to found the organization and also what drives her to expand its influence.
Joining the Pieces Foundation is passionate about coming alongside nonprofit organizations (501(c)3) that give special needs adults on an opportunity to have a satisfying life in Texas.
​
We are accepting grant applications from November 1st to November 30th. Board Members will meet in December, and notify recipients by December 31st.
​
We do not fund for-profit, governmental organizations or individuals.
