04/16/2026
✨ Meet Laura Hope Whitaker ✨
Get ready for an unforgettable evening at The Grove Oconee as we welcome an incredible leader, speaker, and joy-instigator—Laura Hope Whitaker.
Laura Hope Whitaker, M.Ed., is the CEO of Extra Special People (ESP), a nonprofit that’s transforming lives for individuals with disabilities and their families while building stronger, more compassionate communities. What started as a college volunteer role turned into a calling—at just 19 years old, Laura stepped into leadership and never looked back.
Over the past 20 years, she has grown ESP into a nationally recognized organization, launching innovative programs like Java Joy and SEEABILITY that are changing the way communities think about inclusion, connection, and purpose.
In February 2026, Laura released her nationally bestselling book, The Joy Exchange, where she shares powerful insights on choosing joy, even in the middle of life’s challenges.
She’s taken the stage for a TEDx talk on inclusion, been named one of Georgia Trend’s 40 Under 40, and recognized as one of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Most Admired CEOs—but her favorite titles are wife to Joseph and mom to Owen, Finley, and Tate.
💛 Laura brings a fresh, faith-rooted perspective on joy—not as a fleeting feeling, but as something we’re invited to live out daily.
Join us at The Grove Oconee and come ready to be inspired, encouraged, and reminded of the beauty of living a joy-filled life.