Recognizing the leaders behind lasting change.
Behind every resource, program, opportunity, and moment of inclusion is someone who chose to make a difference.
The JJP Advocate Spotlight was created to recognize the leaders whose vision and dedication are helping build a more inclusive world for individuals with disabilities and their families. From nonprofit founders and executive directors to community changemakers and self-advocates, this feature honors those creating lasting impact.
Twice each year, Jude&Jojos Photography will select an individual whose story deserves to be shared. Through professional portraiture and storytelling, we hope to shine a light on the people working behind the scenes to create opportunities, foster belonging, and inspire change within the disability community.
If you know someone whose leadership is making a difference, we invite you to nominate them below.
Fall 2026 Advocate Spotlight Nominations Are Now Open.
Spring 2026 Advocate Spotlight
Dani Higley
Some people change the disability community by creating programs. Others change it by creating places where families know they belong.
As a mother to Kinlin, who is diagnosed with Down syndrome, Dani understands firsthand the joys, challenges, and advocacy that often accompany a disability journey. Rather than simply navigating that journey for her own family, she has dedicated herself to helping create a stronger, more connected community for countless others.
As a co-chair of GiGi's Playhouse Atlanta and a passionate advocate for inclusion, Dani has devoted her time to building connection, supporting families, and ensuring individuals with disabilities are seen, celebrated, and valued. Her leadership is reflected in the relationships she nurtures, the opportunities she helps create, and the sense of belonging she fosters throughout the disability community.
When launching the JJP Advocate Spotlight, there was no better person to recognize as our inaugural recipient. Dani represents exactly what this feature was created to celebrate: leaders whose compassion, service, and advocacy create lasting impact for individuals with disabilities and their families.
We are honored to recognize Dani as the Spring 2026 JJP Advocate Spotlight.
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At this time, nominations are accepted from:
• Georgia (Greater Atlanta Area)
• South Carolina (Greenville area)
• Texas (Houston area)
• California (Ventura area)These states represent JJP's active service regions and ambassador communities.
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The JJP Advocate Spotlight is designed to recognize leaders creating meaningful change within the disability community.
Examples include:
• Nonprofit Founders
• Executive Directors
• Organization Leaders
• Board Presidents & Co-Chairs
• Community Advocates
• Self-Advocates Leading Initiatives
• Inclusive Business & Program Leaders -
We are seeking individuals whose leadership has created lasting impact for individuals with disabilities and their families through advocacy, inclusion, community building, education, support services, or innovative programming.
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To keep the focus on organizational and community leadership, nominations are not currently being accepted for:
• Individual Therapists
• Therapy Clinics or Centers
• Individual Teachers or School Staff
• Medical Providers
• Businesses without a demonstrated disability-focused initiativeWe deeply value these professionals and the work they do; however, the Advocate Spotlight is intended to highlight leaders driving broader community impact.