Hi, we are the Frenches! Jason and Kelly grew up in the same small town in Northeast Ohio and started dating in high school when Jason asked her to prom. They got married in 1999 and moved to Florida in 2010.

Addison was born in 2011, and 14.5 short months later Greyson was born with a birth diagnosis of Down syndrome. In October 2019, we were matched with AJ through a private adoption agency. We received custody in January 2020 and {finally} finalized his adoption in the fall of 2021.

In our free time, we love to spend time at the beach. Addison enjoys surfing and playing basketball. Greyson loves watching NBA basketball and theater and AJ enjoys any outdoor activities that involve running as well as jumping on the trampoline.

Our idea to start The French Family Foundation, Inc came about a few years ago as we saw friends in our disability community struggling to get items approved through insurance that they needed for their children.

Throughout our adoption journey, we realized just how hard the entire process is both mentally and physically and want to walk beside others in the community as they go through their own journey.

Our vision is to use this non-profit as a vehicle to provide support and assistance to persons with disabilities, their families and those seeking adoption of children with disabilities.

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Glow Night

Central Florida Dream Plex

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Annual Gala

Special Olympics Young Athletes

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Granted Custody of AJ

First Family Photo - January 2020

Kelly French

The idea for The French Family Foundation came about when Kelly saw the need in the community for additional support for families with needs that insurance wasn’t covering. Since Greyson was born in 2013, with a birth diagnosis of Down syndrome, she chose to use her career as a Real Estate Broker as a vehicle to do more to give back to the community in which she lives. She has a passion for Special Olympics & promoting awareness for inclusion.

The French Family Foundation, Inc. | Central Florida Fundraising Foundation for Families with Disabilities | Jason

Jason French

My name is Jason and I am a husband to Kelly and a father to Addison, Greyson, and AJ. I own a small consulting firm that focuses on the homebuilding industry. I know the struggles we went through as a family with special needs children and I want help and guide other families in the same situation.

The French Family Foundation, Inc. | Central Florida Fundraising Foundation for Families with Disabilities | Addison

Addison French

Hi! I'm Addison. I am a sister to AJ & Greyson and I love helping those in need. I've had a passion for kids in need ever since I could understand it. I love that I get to meet all these cool, amazing people! In my free time I enjoy painting, surfing and spending time with my family.

The French Family Foundation, Inc. | Central Florida Fundraising Foundation for Families with Disabilities | Meredith

Meredith Rollis

Meredith Rollis is a special education advocate and former teacher. After 14 years in the classroom and time raising her three children, she continued her pursuit of supporting children with special needs by founding Ability 14 Special Education Advocacy. Through her advocacy firm, along with her passion and expertise, she works to guide parents through the complexities of the special education process, ensuring that each child receives the appropriate services they need to reach their full potential.

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Keith Bowman

As a parent of a son with Down syndrome, my passion for supporting adults with special needs is both deeply personal and purpose-driven. I've witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating a world that isn’t always built for everyone, and I am committed to being a voice, advocate, and ally. My goal is to help create inclusive environments where adults with special needs are valued, respected, and given the tools to thrive. Whether through direct support, community involvement, or raising awareness, I strive to make a lasting, positive impact—one built on empathy, dignity, and genuine care.

Audra Steding

As a massage specialist and life coach, Audra’s mission is to help her clients heal, grow stronger, and live their best lives. Her nephew has Down syndrome, and both of her parents have backgrounds in special needs education, so Audra’s connection to The French Family Foundation is close to her heart. Her goals are to encourage, support, and cheer on those in need, and to help build and strengthen the community that The French Family has embraced.

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Tracy Ahearn

Tracy Ahearn serves as the Kids Ministry Director at Grace City Church in Sorrento, Florida, where she works with children and families, including children with autism and other special needs. She is passionate about creating an environment where every child feels loved, accepted, wanted, and able to grow in their faith. Tracy helped launch the Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break program, which provides parents and caregivers of children with special needs a much-needed break. She also serves on the board of Lifewise Ministries, bringing valuable experience in leadership, collaboration, and supporting initiatives that positively impact children and families. Tracy is passionate about advocating for families, building community partnerships, and celebrating the unique gifts each person brings. Her family, faith, and commitment to serving others continue to inspire the work she does in our community.

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