Help DJ Svoboda and Josh with their Financial Hardship

I am starting this GoFundMe campaign for my friend DJ Svoboda to help DJ and his brother Josh get back on their feet and would like to ask for your support!

Daniel John “DJ” Svoboda was diagnosed at the age of 3 with Autism Spectrum Disorder, along with psychomotor retardation which included speech delays and issues with his fine motor skills. Until recently, DJ was cared for by his mother Cindi. But on August 24, 2023, DJ and Josh's mother passed away from brain cancer; it was sudden and unexpected. Since then, DJ has been cared for by his brother, DJ's only immediate relative. Things have been more than challenging for the brothers as they navigate their new reality without their mom.

DJ is an amazing and awesome young man—he has the heart, mind, and soul of a young child with an immense passion and determination to spread love, kindness, and acceptance to those with autism and special needs. Many of us have been touched by his kindness and love!

For years, DJ has been an advocate and ambassador for autism awareness. He is a talented artist whose artwork has been featured through the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, the Autism Society of America, and the Autism Society of North Carolina. DJ has also served as a spokesperson for autism and bullying. DJ has spoken at conferences, churches, universities, local schools, professional association meetings, for local businesses, and has been spotlighted by the local news media on numerous occasions. Through his Imagifriend's art and books, DJ has spread a message of hope and inspiration to those with autism and special needs. It is hard to go anywhere with DJ where someone doesn’t know him. He has a big personality and a huge heart to serve and love others.

In July 2011, DJ and his mother Cindi started their non-profit to promote and sell DJ’s artwork—known as the Imagifriends in a place called Imagiville—to fulfill their mission of spreading autism awareness, acceptance, and inclusion. Imagiville is an imaginary world that DJ created as a safe space when he was younger and being teased and bullied; a safe space where everyone was welcome and accepted for who they are. No questions asked! The Imagifriends (there’s over 300 of them) are led by the famous Mupperezmo, a colorful dinosaur who encourages us all to, “Look and see things from a different point of view!” You can see some of his artwork and read more about DJ’s journey on his website at https://djandtheimagifriends.com.

DJ and his mother Cindi made a great team, that is until her illness and passing just about a year ago. DJ no longer has the support of his mentor and greatest cheerleader. The Imagifriend's Mission has been put on hold while we sort things out; but DJ will be the first to tell you how important it is to keep his and his mother's mission alive! DJ still has BIG dreams for the Imagifriends.

In April, the brothers received an eviction notice from their apartment complex due to being late on their rent. Additionally, the apartment management just increased their rent by nearly 50%, raising their rent to over $2000/mo. Josh is currently unemployed and the small amount of assistance that DJ receives from the state simply is not enough to keep them afloat. We have been able to pull together some money due to the generosity of friends; however, they are still in dire need of financial assistance—immediately!

Also, without Cindi, DJ’s ability to arrange speaking engagements, attend Autism conferences, etc. has temporarily stopped—previously DJ’s main source of income.

Currently we are working with the Autism Society of North Carolina and Helping Hands Ministry to determine what assistance might be available to DJ and his brother. We will continue to seek other financial assistance and are hoping to get DJ’s Imagiville Friends up and running again soon and to continue the Imagifriend's Mission!

Josh has taken on a huge responsibility as DJ's caretaker and needs our support as well. Josh is currently looking for employment and is open to opportunities where he can work from home.

Whatever you are willing to contribute, no matter how large or small, we truly appreciate your generosity and support!

I know that DJ would want me to tell you how much he loves ALL of you and appreciates your kindness. Thank you so very, very much! We are open to ideas and suggestions so if you have any, please feel free to reach out.

Note: The money is being deposited into an account Peggy Massey set up for DJ. Peggy is DJ's adopted "Grandma." Peggy will ensure all donations are used appropriately for their living expenses such as rent, utilities, transportation, food, etc.