Vujicic headlines Champion the Disabled event in Wooster

Imagine being born with no arms and no legs. Then imagine being abandoned at the hospital, ridiculed at school and ogled at your whole life.

What would you do?

Nick Vujicic turned all of that into a ministry called Nick V Ministries and Life Without Limbs, and he’s been touching millions of lives in incredible ways ever since.

Vujicic will headline Champion the Disabled March 1 at Greystone Event Center in Wooster from 8:30-11 a.m. The event is free; however, those attending are asked to preregister because space is limited.

According to Stephanie McCoy, assistant executive director at Upward Bound Youth, which is hosting the event, Vujicic’s story is worth hearing for anyone, but the event is designed to provide insight and hope for individuals who are disabled.

“This is a time when we can celebrate and encourage together,” McCoy said. “Nick is an incredible speaker, and he is so uplifting and inspiring. His message is for everyone to hear.”

The event will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m., followed by an opening worship session at 9 a.m.

At 9:30 a.m. Jamia Cinelli, area director for Joni & Friends, will talk about the ministry of Joni Eareckson Tada, American evangelical Christian, author, radio host, artist and founder of Joni & Friends, an organization focused on accelerating Christian ministry in the disability community.

Eareckson Tada was paralyzed from the shoulders down in a diving accident as a teen.

Vujicic will then speak at 9:50 a.m.

“Joni & Friends was created on behalf of and championing for people with disabilities,” McCoy said.

There will be a VIP session immediately following the event for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.

“It’s an additional time for Nick to touch the lives of individuals with disabilities and their caregivers,” McCoy said.

Upward Bound is a nonprofit organization with the vision to teach Scripture in an effort to equip youth and their families in their spiritual, physical, emotional and educational development.

According to McCoy, Upward Bound uses programs, retreats, camps, mission trips and events like this to connect with the community and build relationships.

“One of our missions is to find ways to bless the community and to help people in any way possible,” McCoy said. “This event is an opportunity to reach out and touch those with disabilities and inspire them, but it’s a wonderful message for anyone to hear.”

To register, visit the UBY website at www.upwardboundyouth.org/events. McCoy said they will make room for walk-ins.