STEUBENVILLE — A series of inclusive activities are set throughout December to offer youth and adults with developmental disabilities as well as their families a chance to congregate and have fun.

Special Connections, which includes the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Special Needs Parents of the Ohio Valley Support Group Facebook page, and Crossroads Christian Church, is joining forces with ARC of Ohio, a statewide organization that promotes the rights and inclusion of developmentally disabled, to sponsor a Merry and Bright holiday event at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the YMCA on Johnson Road in Steubenville. A Christmas movie is scheduled at the venue and attendants can cozy up with some cocoa and festive treats while enjoying a holiday film. All ages and abilities are welcome and a sensory room will be provided.

Kristina Gabel, children’s ministry director at Crossroads and one of Special Connections’ founders, said it is the first time for the activity, and it is open to all families.

“It is open to all ages and children must be accompanied by an adult,” Gabel said. “There will be a family-friendly Christmas movie.”

For information about the movie night, contact the church at (740) 264-9679.

Meanwhile, Special Connections and the ARC of Ohio will team up to host an excursion at 7 Ranges Entertainment, located at 100 Mall Drive in Steubenville, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday. The Combined County Family Bowling Night will feature one hour of bowling, one hour of arcade games and treats including pizza and pop. The cost is $25 per person, but $10 for children and adults with disabilities, and hardship sponsorships are available.

Gabel said it was another first-time event and between 30 and 40 people are expected to attend. For information about that activity, e-mail Kristina@come2crossroads.org or kara.erwin@thearcofohio.org.

A Holiday Bash is also scheduled from 6 p.m. to to 8 p.m. Dec. 19, and promises plenty of fun, food and fellowship. This event is designed for individuals supported by the county board and aims to unite families before the new year, and festivities will take place at the Jeffco Event Center, located at 256 John Scott Highway in Steubenville. While guests were encouraged to RSVP by Dec. 6, organizers have stated that those who did not reserve a spot will still be welcome to attend.

“We invited all of the people we support and will sing Christmas carols, have karaoke, dinner and a place for people to take their photos,” said Lynette Ekey, JCBDD service and support administration director Lynette Ekey. “The providers and families are invited, as well.”

For details about the bash, e-mail lekey@jcbdd.com or awest@jcbdd.com.

So far this month, one group got to travel to see the Wheeling Nailers in action, while a Paint and Snack was held for parents and caregivers on Dec. 9 at Stone House, which is located at 54385 National Road in Bridgeport.