For the Deardurff family, Sunshine Communities has always been nearby—a steady presence in the background of their lives.
The connection began decades ago. In the 1960s, it was Sue’s (Beka’s mother) Grandparents who volunteered as a house parents at Sunshine for the Mennonite support team. Sunshine was an easy choice for them and it has shaped their family ever since.
Sue followed the path of caring, too. As a special education teacher, she built a life where inclusion wasn’t just taught—it was lived. With faith and acceptance at the core, her work became a ministry of inclusion.
With loved ones serving on the board for decades, Beka’s family helped shape Sunshine into the organization it is today.
Over the years, Sunshine remained a constant for the Deardurffs—supporting quilt auctions, sharing memories of the early days, and staying woven into their family’s journey. Beka’s siblings have been involved through an Eagle scout project, volunteering with Challenger Baseball and counseling for summer programs.
That connection became more personal when Bob and Sue began looking for opportunities for their daughter Beka. doing landscaping, assisting in Challenger baseball and counseling for summer programs
“Beka has always been a very social person,” Bob shares, “and we felt that we needed to increase her social interactions as she transitioned from school to a vocational lifestyle.” Their first step was Sunshine’s Saturday program, about 20 years ago, which eventually became the Friday Night Rec events Beka still enjoys today.
“For families looking to get started,” Bob says, “we recommend Friday Night Rec. It’s a perfect way to try programming—she made friends, created memories, and began building her own community.”
Those friendships and connections made the next step easier. Years later, the family made the decision to welcome Beka into Sunshine’s residential services.
“We were primary caregivers for her whole life,” Bob says. “It was a difficult decision, but we knew getting her acclimated would be the best choice in the long run.”
Family involvement has remained central to her life. Beka’s use of a communication device—with skills she has developed over 20 years —allows her to share the names of her favorite direct support professionals, her buddy Darius, and Sunshine activities, alongside memories from home and family names. Everything blends together seamlessly.
Her suitcase may be in the closet at Sunshine, but it’s never gathering dust. The youngest of four, this self-declared “ride warrior” never turns down an opportunity to travel with her family. She’s visited 48 of the 50 states and traveled internationally. Whether it’s a long car ride or a flight to a new amusement park, Beka lives for the adventure.
But even for someone who loves the open road, there’s magic in coming home.
“Whenever we turn down the street toward her Sunshine home, her face glows with happiness,” says Bob. “That smile, when she sees her house come into view, is a moment we treasure—it’s the reassurance that we made the right choice.”
Beka may call Sunshine home, but weekly family dinners still call everyone to the table.
“Sunshine allows Beka to be happy. It’s the Arby’s drive-thrus, Simon Says, and year-round Christmas carols. It’s laughter with Sunshine’s bus drivers. Sunshine lets parents be parents and families be families—and takes care of the rest.”
For Bob, that peace of mind runs deeper than words—it’s something he’s seen firsthand, both as a father and in service to the organization. He currently serves on both the Sunshine Communities and Foundation boards.
“You can see it in her face. She’s healthy and happy. Sunshine lets her choose joy, every single day. Every smile reminds me that the mission truly matters. Sunshine is committed to maximizing each person’s quality of life—and I give my time and energy here because it’s absolutely worth it.”
From Beka and her family, the message is simple:
Sunshine is their place—always has been and always will be.