Pitch-perfect adjective: Exactly right in tone, mood, or pitch
Aaron Jennings, a high school senior in Rome, Georgia, is a true music buff with a remarkable talent. Though he listens to a range of genres, he’s currently captivated by the sounds of the 60s, especially The Beatles. Aaron’s encyclopedic knowledge of music allows him to identify song titles, artists, and release years with ease. Aaron is also a gifted singer and his father, Pastor James Jennings, says he has perfect pitch. This February 1st, he performed “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield at esp’s (Extra Special People) Big Hearts Talent Show. The songwriter urges listeners to “live your life with arms wide open” and esp encourages Aaron to open himself to the joy life has to offer.
Aaron’s enthusiasm for esp is rooted in a genuine sense of affection and belonging that has grown stronger over time spent in their programs. “I love esp because I have made so many friends there. It’s a wonderful environment. People care about you. Just like my Dad cares about me—they care about me in a way where they want to hang out with me more,” he shares. Pastor Jennings echoes this sentiment, emphasizing how rare and valuable esp’s love and acceptance are in Aaron’s life. esp provides a safe and welcoming space where Aaron is embraced just as he is.
Aaron thrives in his interactions with esp, participating in weekly after-school programs, special events, and summer camp. Some of his favorite experiences include the Darlington basketball game at Big Hoops last year and summer swimming sessions. Pastor Jennings adds, “esp stands for Extra Special People—it takes extra special people to do what they do, to open their hearts and accept everyone where they are. Everybody is welcome at esp.” You might say that esp is pitch-perfect when it comes to making each person feel like they belong.
Adding Your Voice to the Chorus
Aaron Jennings reminds us of the importance of having a place where you can feel loved and accepted for who you are. His life has been profoundly impacted by the programs and people at esp, who provide consistent touchpoints to reinforce a narrative of love and inclusion. Creating these meaningful experiences requires dedicated staff, volunteers, and funding.
If the idea of fostering love and belonging in your community resonates with you, connect with esp today. You can cheer on players at the Miracle League Field, walk the red carpet with a new friend at the Big Hearts Gala, work as a summer camp counselor, or simply share a smile over coffee served by one of our Java Joy Joyristas. Every act of service contributes to a brighter future for esp participants and their families.
Join the Movement
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- Volunteer: Cheer, serve, and celebrate with us—Sign up today
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- Sponsor: Make a lasting impact as an esp corporate partner—Explore opportunities
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- Donate: Your gift fuels inclusion and joy—Give now
Together, we can transform lives—including our own—in extraordinary ways.
