Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/1496967
7 Written by Robin Young, photography by Brian Doherty When a community comes together, there is no limit to what can be accomplished. For individuals with developmental disabilities, a united front is critical to providing a sense of independence, inclusion and an overall quality of life that so many of us take for granted. Back in 1999, local mothers of children with developmental disabilities Wilma Goodhue and Joan Mullare set out to address the desperate need for specialized services, including overnight respite care. Their dream was for a "Home with a Heart," a place that families could rely on to provide their children with the same level of quality care and support they receive at home. They started by working with a small group made up predominantly of parents and fellow church members to develop the plan for Friendship Home. John "Jack" Spurr, Jr., a South Shore resident and Boston business executive, had known Wilma for many years. The Spurrs' Norwell home had a pool and Michael loved to swim. Over the years, Jack and his wife Kay maintained their friendship with Wilma, and when she set out to bring the Friendship Home idea to life, Jack was excited to join the cause. "Some amazing miracles happened," explains Jack about the first years. Friendships and relationships with individuals and organizations -- within and beyond the South Shore -- played a pivotal role in bringing Friendship Home to life, and this continued support keeps Friendship Home alive today. When the United Church of Christ in Norwell donated the land for Friendship Home, a major push for the construction of a building began. The first gala event was held with over 500 supporters in attendance, including Doris Buffet, whose large donation early on was monumental. "It was electric," says Jack of the energy at the event. After years of hard work and dedication, and Norwell's Friendship Home Honors Outgoing Chairman Jack Spurr Jack Spurr & Andrea Pyke