On October 2, individuals within KenCrest’s community were honored at a special Community Champions award ceremony
By Sydney Kerelo
On October 2, KenCrest held its 9th annual Community Champions award ceremony, honoring those in our communities who have gone above and beyond for those we support. One of our winners this year was Janeal Murrey, a new Lifesharing partner who welcomed two sisters into her home with open arms.
Amy and Missy found themselves facing overwhelming challenges when their parents suddenly passed away. In December 2023, KenCrest learned about the sisters and immediately stepped in. The Lifesharing team contacted Janeal and her husband, Jay, with an urgent request to provide Lifesharing services for the sisters.
Despite the daunting circumstances, Janeal didn’t hesitate to help. She understood that these independent and proud women needed time to adjust. Instead of rushing the transition, she met them for lunch, invited them to her home for visits, and even had them join her extended family for Easter. She didn’t just offer them a place to stay—she offered them dignity and respect. By getting to know the sisters on a personal level, Janeal was able to address their fears and concerns.
To ensure the sisters felt comfortable, Janeal renovated their rooms, adding personal touches like new beds, dressers, and even small refrigerators. She asked for their favorite colors and decorated their rooms as a surprise—one sister’s room was red, the other blue. When one of the sisters saw her new bedroom, she was thrilled and exclaimed, “How did you know?” It was a clear sign that Janeal had created not just a room but a sanctuary.
KenCrest's Lifesharing program connects individuals with IDD to caring families who can provide a stable, loving home. It’s about more than just providing shelter—it’s about fostering relationships, creating bonds, and building community inclusion. KenCrest’s Lifesharing providers open their homes to those who need support navigating life’s complexities and becoming a part of their family. Lifesharing is an alternative to traditional residential care, and by living together in a family setting, those with IDD are able to thrive.
For all her tireless work, Janeal Murrey was not only recognized as a Community Champion but was also nominated for the Excellence in Lifesharing Award. At KenCrest, we are incredibly grateful for champions like Janeal, who reminds us that we can transform lives when we come together as a community.