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STEUBENVILLE -- Special Connections is planning another fun day for individuals with disabilities during the second-annual Special Summer Bash on July 29.
The free, luau-themed event is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crossroads Ministry Center located at 200 Kragel Road in Richmond and will have activities for all ages and abilities. The event is being coordinated by Special Connections, which includes partners Mindy Aleksiejczyk, organizer of the Special Needs Parents Support in the Ohio Valley Facebook group; Crossroad Christian Church Youth Minister Kristina Gable; and Cookie West, employment and community navigator at the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities. The partners are hoping that participants show up in Hawaiian shirts and attire and enjoy the day.
"We will have a petting zoo, Destiny Dog School, face painting, crafts and games while Amari's Gems will sell items to feature and support local individuals with disabilities," said Aleksiejczyk. "We will have festival foods such as cotton candy, popcorn and hot dogs."
Local organizations will have informational tables to share resources for families.
"Our goal is to not only to have fun, we also want to provide information and resources that can help families build their knowledge of services and supports that can help their child/loved one," added West.
The bash was created last year to provide a day for special needs children, adults and family members and drew about 100 people.
"It was our first event and is a fun get-together," Aleksiejczyk continued. "All of the events were created with these individuals in mind. It's for all ages; it's not just for kids but adults, too. We want all of their families to be together and have a good time."
Special Connections was formed to provide fun excursions and activities geared toward special needs children and their families. The organization created calendar of events throughout the year including a Halloween Bash and Trunk-or-Treat for children and adults, Thanksgiving dinner for Shaffer Plaza Residents at the Jeffco Center, a Christmas celebration and an Easter egg hunt in addition to community activities.
For information, e-mail specialconnections740@gmail.com or go to the organization's Facebook page.