Project Joy
Choosing Joy.
Spreading hope.
Ending hunger.
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The heart behind it.
What cancer can't rob.
In January of 2012 the Plys family lost an incredible husband and father, Patrick Plys after a 17 year battle with brain cancer. Patrick’s love for Jesus radiated hope and an abundance of joy to those lucky enough to know him. He expressed his love in action through countless acts of community service, always striving to meet the tangible needs of our community. And, he did just that.
What does loss have to do with JOY? When Patrick lost his ability to speak and walk following a stroke, a dear friend asked him what now? The diagnosis was bleak. But Patrick picked up a white board and wrote out in courage- "I choose joy."
And so now even in our loss, we carry on the heartbeat of his life: choosing joy, spreading hope, ending hunger. Cancer can rob us of a lot of things, but we refuse to let it rob us of our joy and the courage to do something about the pain around us.
The Plys family is now carrying on Patrick's legacy and honoring him by addressing the needs of hungry children in the Northland through “Project Joy.” We are inviting you to join us. You may have heard the statement, “it takes a village to raise a child.” And quite simply, we can't do this alone.
Childhood hunger is a growing problem in our community but a solvable one. With all of the challenges kids face today, let’s not let hunger be one of them.
Founded along the shores of Lake Superior.
In Duluth Minnesota
and serving surrounding communities
What started as a family legacy project was rallied around by a community and became so much more than we ever dare dreamed.
A board birthed out of both friends and family to strangers alike (turned lifelong allies) that were all passionate about the same goal: end the food insecurity that's prevelant in our schools and communities. From neighborhood children hosting lemonade stands and selling homemade art to local breweries, restaurants and local businesses getting creative with their own fundraising endeavors we have linked arms with our community to truly make a difference.
Olympic curler + Advocate
Chris Plys
Chris has championed this project from the very beginning. As the oldest of Patrick Plys five children - He was passionate about keeping the heartbeat of his dads legacy alive through Project Joy. As his platform grew with success in the curling world, it only echoed his steady support for ending childhood hunger in the region. As he competes in the 2022 Olympic Games, he has continued to amplify the voices of those in need and gain support for this hope spreading community.