Sunshine House opens as new headquarters for Pockets Full of Sunshine

A new chapter opened recently for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities in Beaufort County with the ribbon cutting of The Sunshine House, the new headquarters of Pockets Full of Sunshine.

The organization, founded to create inclusive vocational and social opportunities, celebrated the milestone Sept. 16th at its new facility at 64 Arrow Road on Hilton Head Island. The event drew supporters, volunteers, participants, families and local leaders.

Sally Bartholomew, one of the program’s first “Rays,” cut the ceremonial yellow ribbon. The event was attended by supporters, volunteers, participants, families, and civic leaders and signals a transformative leap forward in providing inclusive, supportive, and empowering services in the region.

The building is designed to serve as a central hub for programs and services that aim to help adults with special needs build skills, find community and live with greater independence.

“Our mission at Pockets Full of Sunshine is to create a community where every adult with special needs is seen, heard, and valued,” said co-founder Laurin Rivers. “It takes a village to build what we see here today, and we are grateful for the outpouring of support that made this dream possible.”

The Sunshine House includes multipurpose rooms, a sensory-friendly activity space, a craft staging area, laundry facilities, gardens and a music room.

A retail outlet, The Sunshine Shop, features crafts and screen-printed items made by participants and is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The facility also has a community room available for local organizations to reserve for meetings.

Programming will cover a range of activities, from vocational support and arts and crafts to music therapy, technology training and recreation. Staffed by professionals and trained volunteers, the organization emphasizes a person-centered approach and encourages family involvement in planning and celebrating achievements.

Co-founder and parent RJ Bartholomew said the opening shows the impact of collaboration. “The Sunshine House is a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together as a community with compassion and resolve; it’s a beautiful thing,” he said.

Since its start, Pockets Full of Sunshine has grown from serving a few families to more than 100, with demand continuing to rise. Leaders say the new space will allow the organization to expand its offerings while reducing the waiting list for services.

“The Rays are an asset to the community in every way, capable of so much when given support and opportunity. The need for programs and activities to integrate these adults into the community is great,” the organization said in a statement.

The project was made possible through financial support, volunteer work and business partnerships. Construction Management Consulting Services, led by Jeff Fotia and Joe Sanders, completed the project on time and under budget. Local artisans and businesses donated artwork, materials and equipment, adding distinctive touches to the space.

Organizers said the facility is intended not only as a home for programs but also as a symbol of inclusion, reflecting the belief that people with special needs can thrive when provided with opportunities and community support.

For more information, to schedule a tour or to learn how to get involved, visit www.pocketsfullofsun.org or contact Rivers at 423-760-2103 or program director Karns Hazlet at 724-594-3790.