Home / Experience / Athens
Athens
Serving Northeast Georgia
Location: Watkinsville / Athens, Georgia | Phone: 706-769-9333
Overview & Info
Welcome to Athens
ESP was founded in the Athens area in 1986 and continues to serve families across more than 30 counties. Today, we offer year-round programs for our members and families that create transformative experiences, including Afternoon Programs afternoon programs, meaningful employment through Java Joy, and adventure-filled opportunities like Summer Camp.
Rooted in a belief that every person has the abilities that shine, ESP is a place where kindness, creativity, and joyful hospitality come together. Members learn, play, and develop skills across a vibrant campus — from adaptive sports at the fully accessible Miracle League Baseball Field to hands-on job training in the Java Joy Snack Stand café. Supported by a dedicated team and caring volunteers, ESP is a community where every member is seen, valued, and encouraged to thrive.
Executive Director: Craig Portwood
Contact Info & Directions
Conveniently located in Watkinsville, just minutes from Athens and downtown Watkinsville, off VFW Drive.
Address: 189 VFW Drive Watkinsville, GA 30677
Phone: (706) 769‑9333
Email: [email protected]
What Our Families Say
Stories of transformation, joy, and belonging from across the ESP community.
Our Experience Programs
At ESP, experiences are designed to help members grow, connect, and discover what’s possible. Each program creates space for confidence, joy, and meaningful relationships — all within a community rooted in support and joyful hospitality. When you enroll a loved one at ESP, you’re opening the door to experiences that build skills, encourage independence, and celebrate abilities every step of the way.
Programs for Members
- Afternoon Programs
- Club Events (themed monthly)
- Summer Camp
- Overnight Camp
- ESPLAY (ages 0–4)
- Member +
Programs for Families
- Family Dinners
- Family Dance
- Jolly Jubilee
- ESP Sibs
- Fall Festival
- Resources (Information Pack & Emergency Support)
Upcoming Events
in Athens
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.
Big Hearts Talent Show
The evening will feature Extra Special Performances by Members of ESP. The cost of your ticket will support programming for Athens members, such as ESP by the Sea, summer camp, and after school programs
Join us Saturday, February 6, 2027 for the Big Jump Talent Show at Bethlehem Church, 985 Hog Mountain Rd, Winder, GA 30680.
Athens
ESP Athens: November Family Dinner #2 and Birthday Celebration
Date: November 12, 2026
Time: 6:15 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: ESP Athens
Athens
ESPlay Athens (0-4)
For Parents/caregivers and their children aged 0-3 years. ESPlay is our way of…
Date: November 13, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: ESP Athens
Athens
ESP Athens: November Club Event- Game Show
Date: November 13, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: ESP Athens
Athens
ESPlay Athens (0-4)
For Parents/caregivers and their children aged 0-3 years. ESPlay is our way of…
Date: November 20, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: ESP Athens
Meet the Team
ESP exists to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better. Meet the team in Athens with a heart for the ESP mission and the ESP community.
How you can be part of Java Joy?
All of ESP Corporate Partners
We are grateful for the corporate partners helping create belonging, connection, and transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families.
Athens Corporate Partners
Celebrating the businesses and organizations helping ESP create belonging, connection, and opportunity in the Athens community.
Get Started
Whether you’re a family exploring programs, a volunteer looking to serve, or a supporter ready to make an impact, there’s a place for you at ESP.