BiG, which stands for Brookwood in Georgetown, began 14 years ago with just eight Citizens. These adults with special needs became the foundation of a vision inspired by founder Erin Kiltz and her daughter, Gracie, who lived with special needs. After discovering the Brookwood Community and seeing 250 individuals being celebrated and highly valued, Erin felt a surge of hope after years of disappointment.

“I want to bring that same community here to Georgetown.” — Erin Kiltz

She set out with a clear vision to bring that same spirit of belonging and purpose to her own backyard.

The Philosophy of Co-Creation

From its inception in 2011, BiG has operated on a philosophy that moves beyond traditional charity. Under the leadership of Erin Kiltz and CEO Elizabeth Griffin, the mission is to provide a God centered, innovative vocational and residential community that changes how the world views adults with disabilities.

This mission is born from a simple, powerful belief: every person is God’s handiwork, created with purpose, dignity, and belonging. As Erin Kiltz says:

“We’re not creating value in our Citizens; we’re revealing what was always there.”

This dedication shines through in their creative restoration approach. BiG does not do things for their Citizens. Instead, they co-labor and co-create with them. This transforms their campus into a vibrant, bustling hub of meaningful work where Citizens thrive as employees, artists, and valued contributors.

Decoding the Name BiG

The name began as an acronym but has blossomed into a broader, inspiring philosophy.

• BiG stands for Brookwood in Georgetown to honor the original community that showed Erin what was truly possible.
• The BiG Community represents a place where everyone belongs, contributes, and thrives.
• A Daily Reminder that every person has something valuable to offer the world.

More Than a Campus: A Place of Belonging

Located at 905 N Church St, BiG was designed to be a place where Citizens are treated with the dignity they deserve. Over the last 14 years, Georgetown has embraced these Citizens so beautifully that it is common for people to stop them on the street to ask, “Do you go to BiG?” They are treated like local celebrities, and for the team at BiG, that is exactly how it should be.

The BiG experience is built on authentic connection:

• Vocational Excellence: On their respective campuses, Citizens participate in specialized enterprises to produce professional-grade pottery, hand-poured candles, and artisanal soaps. These products are curated for our gift shop, where the fruits of their hard work are available for purchase.
• Quality and Pride: When you shop or dine at BiG, you are purchasing professional grade products made with genuine skill and heart.
• A Restorative Atmosphere: Visitors leave truly inspired after witnessing firsthand what it looks like for people to thrive in a supportive, loving environment.

Featuring Joel, Kelsey, Melissa

Celebrating Talent and Supporting the Future

The greatest reward for the BiG team is seeing their Citizens co-create and teach those around them. For Erin, the most profound lessons come from the Citizens themselves.

“If we are patient and take the time to learn from our Citizens, we will be much more who Jesus created us to be.” — Erin Kiltz

The community has two wonderful opportunities to celebrate and support the talented Citizens of BiG this February.

Galentine’s Late Night Shopping

Thursday, February 12th from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the BiG Shop. Guests can enjoy a fun girls’ night out with complimentary drinks, appetizers, and 25% off one item. Plus, every purchase enters you into a raffle to win a stylish Louenhide purse.

Art From The Heart Gala

February 28th at 6:00 PM at the Sheraton Georgetown. This annual gala and art auction showcases incredible masterpieces created by the Citizens throughout the year. Last year, the event raised over $1.1 million to support vocational opportunities and programs.

The story of The BiG Community is a powerful testament to the power of dignity, the beauty of co-creation, and the enduring strength of a community that believes everyone has a purpose.