Day Spring was founded in 1994, built on the belief that people with disabilities should live in the community—not institutions. We were the first in Kentucky to offer supportive independent living in a true neighborhood setting. What began with a few homes has grown into a broad network of residential services, including our College for Living program, Family Home Providers, and multiple group living homes across Louisville.
We don’t simply care for people—we empower them. And our vision remains clear: to create a world where all people, regardless of ability, are embraced, valued, and given the opportunity to thrive.
As a nonprofit organization our story is one of deep commitment to people, not programs. And the best way to understand our impact is through the lives of the people who make Day Spring home.
Regi’s Story: From Uncertainty to Family
In 1999, Regi (pictured) was facing an incredibly difficult chapter of his life. After losing his mother to a chronic illness and becoming disconnected from other family, he found himself living with an elderly caregiver in a home that was soon to be condemned. Fortunately, the team from the Cerebral Palsy School of Louisville (later the Mattingly Center) hadn’t forgotten about Regi. They stepped in to help secure him a better future—and they found it at Day Spring.
At first, Regi wasn’t so sure. Trial visits to our home felt overwhelming: there were chores, responsibilities, and a faster pace than he was used to. But something told him to give it a chance.
Now, in 2025, Regi’s transformation is undeniable. He leads a vibrant, independent life. He works at Popeyes, is active at church, and enjoys time with friends at the local Panera Bread several times a week. He serves on the Day Spring Board of Directors, takes pride in his home and responsibilities, and most importantly, has found a true sense of family with the group of men he’s lived with for over 25 years.
From Student to Self-Sufficient: Daniel’s Story
When Daniel graduated from high school and a work transition program, he had one goal: to have a place of his own. His mother, Lois, was excited—but understandably nervous.
“I knew he deserved the chance to learn independence,” she said. “But it was an adjustment for all of us.”
Daniel moved into Day Spring’s College for Living (CFL), where he was supported in building the life skills needed to live independently. Today, Daniel is thriving in his own apartment, putting those skills into practice every day.
“He’s enjoying life and succeeding,” Lois said. “CFL gave him the nurturing environment, the training, and the confidence he needed. It made such a positive impact on my son’s life.”
Love in Action: Nancy and Bill’s Story
For 32 years, Nancy Ryan has served as a Family Home Provider—offering not just shelter, but deep, life-changing relationships to people who need them most. One of those people is Bill, who’s lived in Nancy’s home for 31 years.
“When he came to us, Bill was carrying a lot—anger, fear, loneliness,” Nancy remembers. “But today, he walks in peace, joy, and confidence.”
Bill is now a cherished member of Nancy’s family. He works hard, loves deeply, and lives each day with purpose. His transformation didn’t happen overnight, but it happened—step by step, in the context of a family that believed in him.
“To be a part of helping someone grow into the best version of themselves,” Nancy says, “is the most rewarding thing in life.”
Help Us Keep the Story Going
When you support Day Spring—whether through a donation, a job, or simply by sharing our mission—you’re helping people like Regi, Daniel, and Bill write their next chapter.
You’re not just supporting a nonprofit organization in Kentucky. You’re investing in people. In dignity. In hope. In community!
