This year, Livespecial.com annual print and digital magazine celebrates 10 years of publishing in the community. The magazine project is a collaboration between NCJW/Cleveland and Mitchell Media, LLC, publisher of Northeast Ohio Parent and Northeast Ohio Boomer magazines.
We talked to Mindi Axner, executive director of NCJW/Cleveland, and Brad Mitchell, publisher of Mitchell Media, about a decade of the magazine and its impact in the community.
Why did you expand Livespecial.com into an annual print magazine?
Mindi: “We thought it would be a good way to get our resource guide out into the Northeast Ohio community. It was meant to be a one-time issue, but the response from readers was so overwhelming that we decided to print a new one annually. We had no idea how important — not just the database, but the educational content — would end up being to the community.”
Brad: “I have always felt that targeted magazines are the best communication method to engage an audience. Mindi Axner and I got our heads together and sensed a need for Livespecial.com to expand from a website to a magazine targeted to the special needs community to allow for greater amplification of the mission.”
Over the past 10 years, what connections has the magazine made in the community?
Mindi: “So many. We get calls and emails from individuals with special needs, their caregivers, doctors, therapists and so many more professionals. Without Livespecial, many of our readers would not know what resources and supports were available within and outside of our community.”
Brad: “Countless! We hear stories all the time of readers who are so grateful for the magazine’s content and for the advertiser solutions showcased. Pointing people back to Livespecial.com provides them with the full depth of provider solutions 24/7.”
Why do you think the Livespecial.com annual magazine is important to the community it serves?
Mindi: “It’s regarded as the most reliable, up-to-date guide to resources in the community. But it’s not just the database that’s important — it’s the articles and tips that are published in the magazine every year that provide helpful advice on living your best life. Things like what recreational activities provide special accommodations or times for children with special needs. Or how to make the most out of a planned trip. And information on your child’s legal dos and don’ts. It has become a bible for so many.”
Brad: “It allows for connectivity between providers and the affected population in a way that is informative and encouraging. It provides resources and inspiration to thousands of families seeking solutions.”
Why is this project important not only to the community, but also to NCJW/Cleveland and Northeast Ohio Parent and Boomer?
Mindi: “I think this project has really opened people’s eyes to the special needs world. Not all disabilities are visible — and through this project, readers have come to understand that at any moment they, too, could face a barrier and need support. For instance, whether they broke a leg or are recovering from an operation. This project has highlighted our interconnectedness and mutual need for compassion.”
Brad: “For Northeast Ohio Parent and Boomer magazines, it highlights the importance of the special needs community to our readers and advertisers as a year-long commitment.”
We hope you enjoy our 10th edition Livespecial.com Magazine!
Visit livespecial.com to view past issues!
