Joshua's Friends | Special Needs Families, Hardin County KY

The Blaze baseball team, players and coaches together in team jerseys

Our story

It started with a son named Joshua.

Joshua's Friends for Exceptional Families is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving special needs families in the heart of Hardin County. Established in 2007 by Dr. TJ and Elizabeth Kimble, the organization was named in honor of their adult son, Joshua, who has Down syndrome. Dr. TJ and Liz offered a variety of services, including pastoral counseling, behavioral workshops, a java house, special needs baseball, and various community events. Dr. TJ and Liz passed away in August 2021, but their legacy continues.

Now it's our turn to keep the candle lit.

Dr. TJ envisioned a Dream Center – a dedicated haven, a warm, welcoming place where exceptional families could gather and find understanding. Throughout their lives, Dr. TJ and Liz Kimble touched countless families, devoting their knowledge, empathy and time. Following the passing of Dr. TJ and Liz, we acquired our dedicated building in Vine Grove, to carry their life's work forward and lay a permanent foundation for the Dream Center.

“Where everybody postpones judgment for understanding.”Dr. TJ Kimble

A place for the whole family

We provide a safe and supportive environment for exceptional individuals, including their siblings and caregivers, to gather, socialize and experience life skills as a community.

Dream Center