John Knox Village Supports ScentsAbility with Golf Cart Donation
JKV forges a new community partnership with ScentsAbility Candles — Crafted by Artisans with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD)
The IDDeal Foundation and ScentsAbility Candles is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Founded in 2009 by Bonnie Schmidt and Denise Anderson—two devoted mothers of adult daughters with I/DD—the organization was created to provide meaningful work opportunities, purpose, and community.
After high school, many individuals with I/DD face significant challenges, including the loss of federal funding, limited pathways to independence, and feelings of social isolation. ScentsAbility was designed to change that.
Today, ScentsAbility Candles operates as an innovative social enterprise offering sustainable income, life skills training, and a vibrant community for adults with I/DD. What began as an alternative to repetitive or institutionalized tasks has evolved into a model of empowerment, offering adaptive strategies that help artisans thrive. In addition to its mission-driven programs, ScentsAbility produces a full line of beautifully crafted, artisan-scented candles.
When ScentsAbility approached John Knox Village (JKV) about the need for a two-seat golf cart to support their daily operations—transporting supplies, moving artisans between workstations, and improving workflow—then-CEO Dr. Sal Barbera immediately agreed to donate one.
“I cannot think of a better organization that can use a golf cart more than the good people at ScentsAbility,” Dr. Barbera shared.
To further support ScentsAbility’s mission during the holiday season, JKV’s Life Enrichment team hosted a hands-on candle-making demonstration for residents. Residents had a chance to get up close and personal with the ScentsAbility team, learning about their mission from Bonnie Schmidt, and making a candle. Participants learned how to create ScentsAbility’s signature Beach Bliss gel candles, complete with beach-themed decorations and embellishments—either to gift or to enjoy themselves.
JKV plans to partner on more events with ScentsAbility for fundraising and education for residents in 2026 and beyond.
To learn more about the community partners John Knox Village supports, or to learn more about life at John Knox Village, contact us to schedule a visit, or call us at 954-783-4040.


