03/21/2025
Happy World Down Syndrome Day!
Angels for Higher is committed to empowering individuals with Down syndrome to reach their full potential by facilitating their inclusive, suitable, and exciting employment as Greeters at professional sports venues and university campuses. Today, we are excited to share the inspiring story of one of our Greeters which embodies our mission, and the power of inclusion, determination, and faith.
🎉 Jordan’s Incredible Journey of Perseverance! 💙💛
– as related by his mother, Christine
"We are overjoyed to celebrate Jordan’s well-deserved promotion with the Phoenix Suns! 🏀 His hard work, determination, and servant-hearted spirit have stood out not only to fans but also to the team’s leadership. One executive said, “Jordan excels at his job. He sees that a guest needs help before they even know they need help.” Another added, “You’re going to be my boss someday."
To say this is a huge milestone would be an understatement. When Jordan graduated high school with his class, he was elated. He had worked hard to graduate with his class and was looking forward to the future. It wasn't until then that we discovered there really wasn't much to offer an adult with Down syndrome. As his friends went off to college, mission trips, and employment opportunities, Jordan felt abandoned by his friends, by society. This was one of the biggest challenges we had faced throughout his diagnosis. There weren't a lot of opportunities for him to feel like an adult, to feel like he was contributing to society.
But Jordan didn’t give up. 💪🏼 He poured his heart into serving at church in guest services, greeting and uplifting others with his warm smile and kind presence. He became a rockstar greeter, learning, growing, and waiting for an opportunity to flourish.
It wasn't until seven years later that we discovered an organization called Angels for Higher. The possibility for Jordan to work for an NBA team seemed too good to be true. We created a resume that shared his guest services work through his volunteer experience. He was called for an interview, nailed it, and started greeting for the Phoenix Mercury. As time went on, Jordan showed his natural skills of caring for guests in every capacity. He stood out and was quickly noticed by the executives of the Footprint Center. It wasn't long before we were approached by a couple of executives who wanted to bring Jordan on as a team member, giving him a promotion and the opportunity to grow within the organization. It was a dream come true for Jordan.
Never have we seen an organization such as Player 15 (the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, and the Footprint Center) embrace the special needs community like they have, prioritize our community, and treat them just like anybody else—giving them, giving Jordan, an opportunity to thrive. The changes we have seen in Jordan have been incredible. He finally feels like an adult, like he has a purpose. His supervisors have said, "One day Jordan, you will be my boss!" and "Jordan earned this! He is amazing!" Jordan's goal now is to do just that! He wants an office at Player 15 and wants to grow with the team.
Organizations like Angels for Higher and Player 15 have changed our lives. They have given Jordan a purpose and have given us hope for the special needs community. This promotion is an answer to years of prayer and proof that hard work and faithfulness never go unnoticed.”
“It’s been an honor to work with Robert and Angels for Higher for the past five years. I’ve had the pleasure of setting up the Greeter program for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field and for the Phoenix Suns & the Phoenix Mercury at the Footprint Center, and it’s amazing to see both programs continue to expand and flourish. The Greeters bring joy to guests and staff members, and their positive energy is contagious. Having individuals with Down Syndrome visible at our events has encouraged more individuals with disabilities to attend games or to contact us about other job opportunities.” – Vanessa Ward, Suns’ Vice President, Event Services
🌍 March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day: Please Join Us in Making a Difference!
Jordan’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact of inclusion and opportunity. As we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, we invite you to join us in supporting individuals with Down syndrome and advocating for more opportunities at athletic venues and university campuses across America!
🙏 Prayers – for more acceptance, visibility, and life-changing opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.
💙 Donations – Your generosity helps fund programs that provide employment, training, and support for individuals with Down syndrome.
Angels for Higher believes that young adults with Down syndrome are more than valuable employees—they spread joy wherever they are and change the lives of everyone they meet at their venues! They use their jobs as pulpits to joyfully proclaim God’s message that every human being is incredibly precious, infinitely valuable, and eternally significant in His sight!
On this World Down Syndrome Day, you have the opportunity to help us change the lives of more individuals with Down syndrome and their families living throughout the USA. Please click below to Help Celebrate Our Greeters on World Down Syndrome Day 2025!
https://app.aplos.com/aws/give/AngelsForHigher/General
If you prefer to GIVE BY MAIL, we can receive your tax-deductible donation via personal or foundational check at this address:
Angels for Higher
P.O. Box 77160
Corona, CA 92877
(949) 910-0477
Please contact us by replying to my email: if you have any questions or would like to learn more about our vision to develop Strategic Alliances with sports teams, university campuses and Down Syndrome Associations across the USA.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Robert, Melissa, & Trevor Hendershot
Angels for Higher
(949) 910-0477
www.AngelsForHigher.org
