Meet the Jeevanayagams: Finalists for the Disney and Points of Light Volunteer Family of the Year!

The Jeevanayagam family from Suwanee, Georgia, were announced today on Good Morning America as one of the five finalists in the running to be named the Disney and Points of Light Volunteer Family of the Year!

The Jeevanayagams have been volunteering with Spectrum Autism Support Group for more than six years. Parents Nicky and Jacob, along with twins Luke and Hannah, exemplify what it means to give back and are always the first to show up whenever there is a need in their community. Including their son, who has autism, in their volunteering work not only provides him with valuable experience, it also helps others see that everyone has the power to make a difference, regardless of ability. The Jeevanayagam family’s volunteer work includes fundraising, organizing events, recruiting new volunteers and leading the way by inspiring others in their community with their commitment to service.

The Jeevanayagams were one of thousands of families across the country nominated for the Disney and Points of Light Volunteer Family of the Year contest by schools and nonprofits registered with the Disney Family Volunteering Reward Program.

Now five amazing finalist families are being featured on GMA  this week, sharing the stories of their incredible volunteer work, followed by a nationwide online vote starting on Oct. 11 where you will be able to vote for your favorite family!

The winning family will be announced on GMA on Nov. 1 and will receive a dream vacation to Walt Disney World, where they will be the guests of honor at a special event to celebrate Family Volunteer Day on Nov. 23. The nonprofit or school that nominated the family will also receive $10,000 to continue their important work in the community.

Make sure to tune into every day this week to meet the rest of the incredible Top 5 families, and stay tuned for more updates on the competition and details on how you can vote!

If you and your family would like to get involved with family volunteering, you can find opportunities in your area or search DIY projects that cover a variety of issue areas. Nonprofits and schools in the United States can join the Disney Family Volunteering Reward Program and earn Disney Parks tickets by hosting volunteer family events.