July 2023 Special Needs Living Akron/Canton

Cover Story!

Introducing Jared Frank! Kimble Company's Biggest Fan!

Story by Melissa Klatt with Photos by Michelle Herdlick

Meet Jared Frank, a remarkable 17-year-old soonto-be Junior at Hoover High School in North Canton, Ohio. Jared is not your typical high school student, as he faces unique challenges due to his special needs. However, what sets Jared apart is his unexpected, incredible passion for the Kimble Company, his love for helping his neighbors, and his unwavering enthusiasm for horseback riding at Pegasus Farms in Hartville, Ohio. Let’s take a closer look at Jared’s story and how he has found joy and purpose in unexpected places.

CHALLENGES JARED AND HIS FAMILY FACED DURING HIS EARLY YEARS

When Jared was younger, he had some very challenging behaviors. He loved doors; he would open and close doors or watch doors open and close.

“We worked very hard to bring Jared into our world,” says mom, Christine Frank. “Sometimes, we couldn’t go to family gatherings or our other children’s sporting events with Jared. One of us would have to stay back with him because it was too much for him to be there. But we worked hard, each and every day with him and had a lot of support to help him. Jared goes everywhere with me now! There were times I thought we would never get to take him places: now I am traveling with him and having a ton of fun!”

Jared & his favorite driver Charlie!

INTRODUCING: KIMBLE’S WALKING BILLBOARD!

Jared’s love for the Kimble Company, a local waste management and recycling company, knows no bounds. He is their biggest fan and has developed a special bond with the company’s drivers. Every trash collection day, Jared eagerly waits for the Kimble trucks to come by his house, and he is always ready with a wave and a cheerful greeting for the drivers. Jared’s enthusiasm and love for the Kimble Company and its drivers have made him a beloved member of their community.

WHEN I GROW UP, I WANT TO BE A KIMBLE DRIVER BECAUSE I HAVE KNOWN ABOUT THAT COMPANY FOR YEARS! -JARED FRANK

“I could go on and on about Jared’s love for Kimble, the friendship Jared and our family have with the drivers, and the kindness of the Kimble Company,” reflects Christine. “Jared and the recycle driver exchange notes each week, and every Friday, Jared is in his Kimble clothing (even if we are on vacation). He’s a walking billboard for Kimble! It is a pretty unique story: one that I have been able to watch and evolve in the kindest way.”

EVERYONE’S FAVORITE NEIGHBOR

In addition to his love for the Kimble Company, Jared is also known for his kind heart and willingness to help his neighbors. Jared takes the trash and recycling cans out for about ten of his neighbors in the Eastwood Allotment and brings them back in after Kimble picks them up. During the summer he washes their trash and recycling cans. Jared’s genuine care for others and his desire to be of service have made him a beloved figure in his neighborhood, and he is cherished by those who know him.

ESSENTIALS FOR JARED’S PROGRESS: PEGASUS FARMS AND THE GOLDEN KEY CENTER FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN

Two things in this world that Christine shares an appreciation for are both Pegasus Farms and The Golden Key Center for Exceptional Children. Both of these organizations have made a tremendous impact on Jared.

“It takes a village to raise a child...There are so many people who have helped Jared in his seventeen years,” says Christine. “The person that comes to mind who helped us immensely in this journey is Terry Frank, Director of The Golden Key Center for Exceptional Children. Terry was very instrumental in Jared’s success. Additionally, Jared has been riding horses at Pegasus Farms since 2011. We heard that equine therapy was beneficial to children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Jared’s quad muscles were very tight and his core strength was weak. Over the years, he has gained strength and coordination.”

SEE THE WORLD THROUGH JARED’S EYES

Christine credits her changed perspective of the world to her son, Jared. “These children are gifts from God,” Christine affirms. “I learned real quick that the gift I was given was going to change my life forever. Jared has opened my eyes to a whole different perspective on life to slow down and see the beauty in those around me. Jared loves to visit with family and friends, so this has allowed me to grow in my relationships with others. A very wise person once shared with me, we have to see the world from Jared’s eyes and embrace it!”

Jared’s family plays an essential role in his life, providing him with unconditional love, encouragement, and support. They have been his biggest advocates and have helped him navigate the challenges he faces. Jared’s story is a testament to the importance of family support and inclusive communities that embrace and empower individuals with special needs.

Jared Frank is a remarkable young man who has found joy and purpose through his passion for the Kimble Company, his love for helping his neighbors, and his enthusiasm for horseback riding at Pegasus Farms. His unwavering determination, kind heart, and infectious enthusiasm are an inspiration to all who know him.