A Letter From Our Founders
Dear Friends,
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Canvas of Grace.
We are honored that you're here.
Canvas of Grace was born from years of serving individuals with special needs and listening to the stories of the families who love them. As an Occupational Therapist and a Speech-Language Pathologist, we've celebrated incredible milestones, but we've also witnessed the difficult question that so many families eventually ask:
"What comes next?"
Too often, meaningful opportunities for adults with disabilities become limited after they leave school. Families are left searching for places where their loved ones can continue to learn, contribute, build friendships, and experience the dignity that comes from having purpose.
We believe there can be more.
Canvas of Grace exists to create opportunities where individuals are embraced with dignity, supported in growth, and empowered to thrive. Through vocational training, life skills, social connection, and meaningful community experiences, our goal is to help every participant discover that their abilities matter and that they have something valuable to offer the world.
Our first program, Toasted Grace, is only the beginning. As God opens doors, we dream of expanding through programs like Rooted in Grace and Bound by Grace, creating even more opportunities for individuals to develop skills, build confidence, and find belonging within their community.
Everything we do is rooted in our faith and guided by the verse that inspired our organization's name:
"But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain."
— 1 Corinthians 15:10 (ESV)
That verse reminds us that every life has purpose. Every person has gifts worth cultivating. Every story matters.
Whether you're a family member, volunteer, donor, community partner, or simply someone who believes in creating a more accepting and compassionate community, thank you for being here. Your encouragement and support make this mission possible.
We are building Canvas of Grace one relationship, one opportunity, and one life at a time. We invite you to walk alongside us as we help create a community where every individual, regardless of ability, is embraced with dignity, supported in growth, and empowered to thrive.
With gratitude,
Carrie Taylor, MSOT, OTR/L
Co-Founder & Co-Chair
Kristen Wendel, M.S., CCC-SLP
Co-Founder & Co-Chair