VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Joe and Susie Stefonowich have been creating a welcoming space for people with disabilities for more than a decade.
Their weekly ministry in Virginia Beach, called "The Chosen," brings together people of all ages and abilities for fellowship, prayer, dancing, and community connection.
"We have a daughter with some disabilities as well, which led us into this kind of ministry, and so that just keeps us going," Susie said.
Her husband Joe added, "We just wanted to make sure there's a place for everyone.”
The Monday night gatherings in the Great Neck area of Virginia Beach kick off with a dance party and create what members describe as "one big happy family." The ministry serves everyone from middle school students to adults and offers virtual participation through Zoom for those who cannot attend in person.
Each meeting features different themes, activities, and speakers requiring careful planning from the Stefonowich’s. Their dedication has not gone unnoticed by the community they serve.
"My favorite thing [about them is that they are always] good people, always [share] love and respect [and] always have a passion for people with disabilities," one member said.
Another member emphasized the family atmosphere the couple creates.
"They do feel like family. I've known these two for almost two years," he said.
For their 15 years of service to the community, Joe and Susie received recognition as Everyday Heroes, along with a News 3 award and $300 from Southern Bank.
"We don't feel like heroes. We just do what we love, and this is our passion," Susie said after receiving the honor.
The couple hopes their ministry will help bridge understanding between people with and without disabilities.
"We ask people to try to come and just be present here so that they can meet people with special needs. And we want it to be commonplace, to be able to meet with people that [have] other abilities," Joe said.
When asked what makes the work emotional for him, Joe became visibly moved.
"I get choked up real easily because these guys are just in our heart," he said.
The Chosen ministry continues to prove that creating inclusive spaces can build meaningful connections across all abilities and ages.
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