When Bella Jeffrey packed up her life in Houston, Texas, and moved to Kentucky in February 2021, it wasn’t for a fresh start or a family relocation—it was for a calling. She had found a job posting at Cedar Lake Lodge supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and something about it felt right. “As soon as I got into orientation,” she recalls, “I knew I had found the place for me.”
Bella started during one of the most challenging times imaginable—right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the restrictions and the emotional weight of supporting individuals through isolation, she dove in wholeheartedly. “It was hard getting through the pandemic because of all the restrictions to keep the individuals safe and healthy,” she says, “but I was inspired watching everyone slowly return to a ‘new normal.’” Her role began as a recreation assistant, but her heart and creativity soon led her into her current position as Classroom Manager of the Discovery Center.
Bella’s path to Cedar Lake wasn’t traditional. A graduate of Sam Houston State University with a degree in mass communication, she spent years working with nonprofits in programming and events. After managing a university community garden and taking time to reflect on her career direction, Bella knew she wanted to help people. “I have a helping heart,” she says simply.
The Discovery Center
The Discovery Center—a vibrant, sensory-focused classroom Bella helped bring to life—is a cornerstone of her work. “It’s like a giant sensory room,” she explains. Outfitted with swings, beanbags, bikes, and colorful visuals, it’s a haven for individuals who benefit from tailored sensory stimulation. Whether they need movement, music, or quiet, Bella ensures everyone has access to the tools they need to thrive.
Two individuals, in particular, stand out in Bella’s storytelling. Zach, discovered not just mobility but social connection through cycling inside and outside the center. “Now he’s a part of the bike club, hands out flyers, and distributes canteen money to the suites. Then there’s Josh—affectionately known as Bub—who once struggled with social interaction. Through personalized sensory support, music, and meaningful relationships, he’s become one of the most affectionate members of the class.
For Bella, the classroom is more than a workplace—it’s a second home. “I moved here without a support network,” she shares. “The individuals I work with are my friends. I want to comfort them, celebrate them, and support them the way I would for any of my loved ones.” Her mission is clear: create a space where each person feels safe, heard, and capable of expressing themselves.
Bella’s passion also extends to community education and inclusion. She believes that disabilities shouldn’t separate people, but that fear and misunderstanding often do. “A disability is not a choice,” she says, “but staying away from those with disabilities is. They are our friends, family, neighbors—and they deserve to be accepted, included, and loved.”
Even outside of work, Bella’s nurturing spirit shines. She’s an avid gardener, with over 100 houseplants, and finds peace in hiking with her rescue dogs, Penny and Copper. During time off, she brings them to Cedar Lake, where they provide another layer of joy and sensory support for individuals who enjoy animal interaction.
Looking ahead, Bella hopes for Cedar Lake’s continued expansion and deeper community integration. “There are so many people who need support like we provide here,” she says. “I’d love to see more community members visit and get to know us.”
For now, Bella stays rooted in the present. “Enjoy the present,” she says, echoing her personal mantra. “This job has taught me more about communication, empathy, and unconditional love than I ever learned in school. Every day, I get to help my friends, have fun, and discover something new—about them, and about myself.”
