| 17 February 2010
Posted in News and Updates

Brought Together.....For Joy

We met last night for the second time.    There were 28 of us….a diverse group….family, friends, former teachers, nurses, and even 3 new supporters.  Yes, there were three people who attended who had never met Joy but were moved by her story to join us offering their support, donations and friendship.   It truly is an amazing experience.  A few of the people know each other from church or from their schools, but all-in-all, the only thing that brings us together is concern and love for Joy.

We discussed our 4 major goals for the pre-sentencing timeframe. 

• Coordinate the writing of letters in support of Joy to the judge for the sentencing.
• Get the truth out about Joy
• Raise donations toward Joy’s appeal  and begin fundraising
• Provide support to Joy to keep her spirits up

Here is a summary of the discussion.

Letters of Support

Those who know Joy are encouraged to write a letter to Judge Ashworth.   The letters need to focus on Joy’s character and share examples of how Joy has impacted their life.  Letters can be directly to Attorney’s Patterson’s office or to Joy’s brother Tom.  Instructions can be found on the website in the section “Help Joy Before Sentencing”.  Letters are due by Feb 28^th.

Spreading the News

Everyone was encouraged to continue to promote the website and the facebook page.  It was reported that we have 1016 fans on FB.  

Tonight we received the orange bracelets that are imprinted with “Justice for Joy”.  There is a limited supply.   Let us know if you would like to receive one of these bracelets.  Many thanks to Ruth – what a great idea!!  Lancaster County-Look for people wearing orange bracelets.  We are proud to show our support for Joy.

Next- Bumper Stickers or Magnets for Cars!!

Raising Money

Donations continue to come in.  Please consider donating to Joy’s cause!  Every dollar counts! Thank you!!!

We brainstormed additional ideas for fundraising.   

• Sale of a quilt  -- Thanks Dawn.  Pictures of the quilt can be found on Facebook.  We will let everyone know how we will sell it.
• Sub sale
• Basket Bingo
• Silent Auction
• Pampered Chef on-line sale
• Sell Orange Chico Bags
• Sell Note Card drawn by Joy

Keep Joy’s Spirit Up

Everyone was encouraged to keep cards and letters coming.  At this time, Joy is requesting the people not send books.  She will be unable to take books with her when she leaves Lancaster Co. Prison.  As we learn more about what Joy can receive when she moves to a state facility we will update the website.  I have had many people asking about this topic.  It appears that she will be able to receive books and CD’s and other items when she is moved so we will be able to plan for those items once we know the date.

We will keep everyone posted on progress with all of this on the website!  Thanks to everyone for fantastic support!  Special thank you to Karen for great refreshments.  I have to say that the pumpkin whoopee pie was PHENOMENAL!