A place without judgment

For fifty years, Happiness Bag has offered services and programs that focus on the unique potential of each client — or “friend” — they serve. Through adult day programs, sports and other activities, friends can develop daily living and social skills in an inclusive, comfortable environment.

Jana Crowder of Epic Insurance Midwest goes incognito as Sunny, the Happiness Bag mascot, to the delight of Happiness Bag friends.

Jana Crowder, account manager at Epic Insurance Midwest, has been volunteering at Happiness Bag since 2010 and joined the board of directors in 2013. Today she’s the board’s vice president, sits on the fundraising committee, and volunteers her time at various events. “I’ve seen first-hand how the programs at Happiness Bag benefit the participants,” she says. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and feel included in their community.”

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and feel included in their community.” – Jana Crowder, account manager, Epic Insurance Midwest

When she joined the agency in 2013, Jana enlisted the regional president to support Happiness Bag’s mission. Over the years, the agency and staff have supported the organization by sponsoring fundraisers, donating much-needed supplies and volunteering their time.

A growing need

Happiness Bag is the only facility of its kind in the Wabash Valley, and they’ve outgrown their current space. A larger, updated space would allow more friends to get the enrichment they need instead of sitting at home alone. An expansion plan is in the works.

Epic agency staff and Happiness Bag friend Matthew were all smiles at the 2019 Bowl-a-Thon annual fundraiser.

“Our goal is to provide every individual the opportunity to encourage their unique potential, thus promoting independence and a lifestyle providing positive activities.” – Jodi Moan, executive director, Happiness Bag

Making recreation accessible

The annual Bowl-a-Thon fundraiser is a fun way for the community to get involved with Happiness Bag.

A Make More Happen Award from Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance will allow Happiness Bag to move and expand their outdoor recreation area to serve more people. Funds may also be allocated toward updating adaptive equipment to provide safe activities for participants.

Help Epic Insurance Midwest win another $5,000 for Happiness Bag by cheering them on with a vote!

If your agency volunteers with a 501(c)3 nonprofit, learn how you can win a Make More Happen Award here.