About
About ESP
ESP exists to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better.
Overview & Info
Transformative experiences that change lives—and communities.
For nearly 40 years, Extra Special People (ESP) has built spaces where people of all abilities are seen, supported, and celebrated. What began as a single week of summer camp has grown into a multi-community organization offering year-round programs, family support, and meaningful opportunities for connection, growth, and independence.
At ESP, experiences are intentionally designed. They meet individuals where they are, honor their abilities, and surround families with a community rooted in joyful hospitality. Families don’t just participate in programs here—they find a place to belong.
Mission
ESP exists to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better.
Vision
A world where every person of every ability has universal access to transformative experiences.
Values
Joining ESP is designed to feel simple, supportive, and personal. While these steps takes a little time, it allows our team to prepare, support, and serve your family with excellence and care. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Infused with Joyful Hospitality: We are spreaders of warm hospitality who go the extra mile to create priceless welcomes. People come first—always.
Innovating Possibilities: There is always more than one way forward. We solve problems at the root, challenge the status quo, and cling to what is possible.
Activating the Abilities of All: We spark strengths, coach growth, and adapt intentionally—ensuring every person has the opportunity to learn, lead, and thrive.
Fascinated with Fun: We ask, How can this be fun? A playful spirit fuels celebration, creativity, and connection in everything we do.
Compassion, Freely Given: We lean into the awkward, offer comfort, and believe small acts can make a big impact. Indifference has no place here.
Connecting the Unconnected: We build bridges with intent—owning the gaps and fostering connection, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Persevering, Together: We move as one team. No silos. No shortcuts. We run the race together and refuse to yield.
Our Purpose
ESP exists because experiences matter.
When people of all abilities are given consistent opportunities to connect, try new things, and be supported as whole individuals, confidence grows. When families are surrounded by community, support extends beyond programs into everyday life. And when communities are invited into that experience, perspectives change.
ESP designs experiences that strengthen individuals, support families, and shape more connected, compassionate communities.
Our Impact
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Our History
1986
The Beginning
ESP began with a single summer camp in Watkinsville, Georgia. Founded by Martha Wyllie, the first camp served 21 participants at a time when families had few recreational opportunities for children with disabilities. What started as one week of camp was rooted in a simple belief: see ability, create opportunity, and build belonging.
1991
A Place to Call Home
ESP opened its first dedicated facility on VFW Drive in Watkinsville. For more than two decades, programs operated out of a 1,600-square-foot gym that became the heart of the community—where relationships formed, confidence grew, and demand steadily increased.
2006
Carrying the Vision Forward
Following Martha’s passing, Laura Hope Whitaker stepped into leadership at just 19 years old. What began as a volunteer role quickly became a calling. Under her leadership, ESP stabilized, grew, and doubled down on its mission—ensuring families were supported and no one was turned away.
2012
The Creation of ESP 360
ESP expanded beyond seasonal programming with the launch of ESP 360, introducing year-round experiences and wrap-around family support. This marked a shift from standalone programs to a holistic model designed to walk alongside individuals and families through every stage of life.
2016
A Defining Year of Growth
After a $3 million capital campaign, ESP opened a new 14,000-square-foot Activity Building and renovated the original gym—immediately eliminating waitlists and increasing capacity. That same year, ESP launched Java Joy, creating meaningful employment for adults with disabilities through joy-filled hospitality.
2020
Expanding Communities
ESP extended its reach beyond Watkinsville, launching programs in the Atlanta area and Rome Georgia. Java Joy served as the first bridge into new communities, opening doors to broader programming and deeper regional impact.
2022
Play Without Barriers
ESP opened the Miracle League Complex in Watkinsville, featuring a universally accessible baseball field and playground where children of all abilities play side by side. The complex became a community gathering place rooted in connection, confidence, and joy.
2026
Today & What’s Next
As ESP celebrates 40 years, the organization expands beyond Georgia for the first time with a new community in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina. ESP also breaks ground on the future Camp Hooray property in Jefferson, Georgia, while CEO Laura Hope Whitaker releases The Joy Exchange—marking a new chapter of growth, influence, and possibility.
Meet the Team
From celebrations and family gatherings to active, joy-filled experiences, ESP events bring members, families, and the community together. Each event is designed to spark connection, create memories, and celebrate abilities in every season.
Ready to Transform Lives?
Your time, presence, and willingness to connect help make transformative experiences possible every day at ESP.