Meet Josiah Jackson, who, despite struggles with autism and other medical battles, is a gift to this community. Although doctors said he would never make it to his first birthday, he will be 18 soon and is serving faithfully at Youth-Reach Gulf Coast.
His faith and joy is genuine and inspiring. Anyone who spends time with him, including the residents he lives among with his mother and father (staff members Tony and Cindy Jackson), can feel his love for Jesus and others.
One of the ways he enjoys expressing his love for others is through the flowers he grows. At the early age of five, Josiah first discovered his passion for growing and caring for blossoming plants. It all began with just a handful of potted plants he nurtured and sold on his parents’ front porch in North Carolina.
Above all others, his flower of choice is the rose. Last year Josiah grew roses, Dahlias, Snap Dragons, Sunflowers, Tulips, and Zinnias at Youth-Reach. We encourage those of you who may not yet have experienced Youth-Reach Gulf Coast to come out and enjoy these blessings of beauty that Josiah cultivates.
When asked why he is so committed to caring for his flowers, Josiah’s reply is always that he “wants to make people happy.”
When asked why he is so committed to caring for his flowers, Josiah’s reply is always that he “wants to make people happy.”
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