JUNE 2026 JFSA’s Horvitz YouthAbility Ambassadors enjoyed an unforgettable five-day trip to Louisville, Kentucky filled with friendship, community service, learning, and fun.

The adventure began with a visit to Blackacre, a 300-year-old farm and nature preserve, where the group volunteered with farm tasks, office work, and preparing a historic homestead for a weekend wedding. A favorite activity was socializing with goats to help them become more comfortable with visitors.

The Ambassadors explored Louisville landmarks including the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs, experiencing the city’s history through interactive exhibits and tours.
A major highlight was performing the group’s original production of “Kindness Grows” for audiences across the city, including at the Actors Theatre of Louisville.

During the trip, the group created artwork, played basketball, sang karaoke, and created masks for an upcoming gala. Additional visits to Keneseth Israel Congregation, the Robley Rex VA Medical Center laundry facility, and Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm added meaningful experiences.

“Our Ambassadors shined as brightly as gold—touching hearts and spreading cheer,” said Heidi Solomon, JFSA Horvitz YouthAbility Coordinator. “We hope we left a footprint of kindness everywhere we visited.”

The trip ended with hugs, laughter, and one final question from an Ambassador upon returning home: “Can we do this again next week?”

The Horvitz YouthAbility Program empowers teens and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through social experiences, leadership opportunities, travel, volunteerism, and creative programming that builds confidence, independence, and meaningful community connections.

To learn more, contact: Heidi Solomon at 216.513.9277.