As older parents of an adult son with developmental disabilities Pat and Whitey Ellis had reason to be concerned and interested in finding a home where their son Dennis could later live with the kind of love and support his parents have provided throughout his life.  God heard their prayers and was already at work, preparing a place for Dennis’ future.

Friends, George and Athena Pappas also have a daughter with special needs. When Pat Ellis first met George he had already begun envisioning a safe living environment for adults with disabilities. While attending a meeting with George and others, Pat heard the idea of building a home where men and women who could not care for themselves independently was discussed. The idea was one that struck a note with Pat personally as the mother of a young man with a developmental disability.  She knew deep in her heart that this was not just “any” project, but a God thing.

In 2010, the idea of Protected Harbor became reality. When Pat and her husband, Whitey visited the first project, they were both impressed with the result. Not only was the spacious home beautiful, each resident having their own private bedroom with en suite bathroom, but it was clear the focus of all things would be “Christ centered”.  

“When I walked into the first Protected Harbor home after it was built, I was impressed with how well GOD worked to make Protected Harbor become possible for people with disabilities to find a loving and caring Christian home allowing them to live life at its fullest and be the best they can be.”

Even though this first home was designed exclusively for women residents (and the two staff couples that would also reside there), Pat enthusiastically joined the board of Protected Harbor. Then in January of 2018, a second, home was completed and Pat and Whitey’s son, Dennis became its first official resident. It is no surprise that Dennis loves it there. He frequently enjoys weekend visits with his parents but always reminds them when it’s time to take him “home” (to Protected Harbor). 

Not surprisingly, as Pat began her work on the board, she realized how many people were unaware of Protected Harbor or its purpose. She also became aware of the insurmountable challenges ahead as the need for financial support as well as suitable personnel became more pressing. 

Her work on the fundraising committee is one way she can  get the word out. With her special connection she is able to share the story of Dennis and Protected Harbor with everyone she meets.   Her message is simple but compelling: “Our Christian homes bring Christian values to this work, and the loved ones being served are treated with respect, dignity and are genuinely loved.” And then as a personal note she adds: “My son Dennis will continue to have a better life and so will so many others like Dennis who are seeking their forever home. My work is not just for Dennis, but for all the homes and all those who live there.”

Making an impactful connection with new friends and fellow Christians has become Pat’s most rewarding work now.  Her optimism shows when one speaks to her. She looks forward to the continued growth and expansion of Protected Harbor as they seek to build more homes for those in need. Because all those involved share her view that this is a project designed exclusively to honor God and the special people He created she believes that God will touch the hearts of new friends and generous people who will join in this mission.

Despite the current challenges presented by the pandemic and the frustration of having to inhibit the residents from living their usual routines outside the homes, Pat remains optimistic and forward looking. With so many more families needing the care and the services offered by Protected Harbor, facing the challenge of providing more homes as well as the funding necessary to accomplish it all is an ongoing effort. But as Pat and Whitey often reflect on happy memories of enjoying dancing, playing tennis and many travels around the world, these days can be described as one of peace knowing their son will be safely taken care of in a loving, Christian home for the rest of his life.

February 8th and 9th Protected Harbor Board members and staff participated in First Baptist Church of Naples annual Kingdom Missions Conference. It was an all-weekend affair focusing the community’s hearts and minds on opportunities to share the gospel of Jesus.

Special guest speaker Dr. Richard Taylor, Founder and President of Life Beyond Life, Inc., a ministry created to assist struggling and dying churches find life again through concentrated personal evangelism, strategic initiatives of systems and process, and leadership development, touched the hearts of many.

Jeff Buchholz, President of Protected Harbor spoke at the conference. All ears were tuned in as he shared about Protected Harbor’s history and got the audience excited about our mission.

First Baptist Church Naples is one of the largest supporters of Protected Harbor’s ministry. This was Protected Harbor’s third year participating in their Mission Conference. Conference participants had the opportunity to meet local mission partners and discover how to become more involved with sharing the Gospel within their community.

Protected Harbor Board members, Friends of the Board, and staff shared the mission and work that Protected Harbor has accomplished with Mission Conference attendees. There was an outpouring of interest and support as parishioners stopped at the booth offering to lend their services, volunteer, and even provide supplies to help move the mission forward. Jeff was featured during Sunday’s 9:30 service where he spoke about Protected Harbor’s history and the exciting future ahead.

“It was a wonderful event seeing the community come together and help support an organization that has the sole purpose of helping God’s children.” ~ Tanya Croy

Protected Harbor is always honored to connect with the community, educate our fellow brothers and sisters on what it is that we do, and give back our time.

February 7, 2020 was a very special evening for the residents of Protected Harbor who attended the local Night to Shine event, a celebration in which each guest was crowned Prom King or Prom Queen.

“Night to Shine,” is a worldwide movement sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. It is a celebration to honor individuals, 14 years of age and older, who have intellectual or developmental disabilities. The event centers around uplifting individuals with special needs and celebrating humanity. It is about ensuring each individual feels accepted and appreciated.

Sanibel Community Church had the opportunity to serve as one of over 650 churches around the world registered to simultaneously host a “Night to Shine.” For the residents of Protected Harbor, it was an opportunity many did not get to previously enjoy their first time around in high school.

“Night to Shine” organizers have spent tireless months preparing and planning to make this magical night happen. Over 100,000 guests around the globe from over 720 churches, 50 states, and more than 30 different countries participated in the celebration and were crowned as Prom King or Prom Queen. Of course, this would not have been possible without the support of over 200,000 worldwide volunteers.

“We have decided to go out of our way to make the biggest, most special night of the year for people with special needs because they’re worth it and they’re special,” said Founder Tim Tebow. Sanibel Church reported that 124 guests registered for the event. In addition, more than 100 family members and caregivers, plus an estimated 200 volunteers, were also in attendance.

Activities began at 4:30 p.m. at the Sanibel Church. Registration, a visit to the men and women’s grooming stations, presentation of corsages and boutonnieres, a limousine ride, the Red-Carpet walk, a personal photo, karaoke, music, dancing, and dinner complemented the evening.

During the event, parents and caregivers were hosted in Fellowship Hall, where they received a meal, had time for fellowship, and engaged in activities as the event was streamed from the main sanctuary.

For more information and photos from the event, visit “Sanibel Church Night To Shine 2020” on Facebook www.timtebowfoundation.org/index.php/night-to-shine.