Special Olympics and special needs fair set for Sept. 22

  • Published
  • By Sarah Olaciregui
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Field events, an art show, face painting, giveaways, vendor information tables and more are on the agenda for Hanscom's first Special Olympics and third annual Special Needs Family Fun and Information Fair Sept. 22.

The day begins at 9:30 a.m. with check in at the Youth Center. As guests arrive, they will be treated with goodie bags, T-shirts and event programs. Opening ceremonies kick off at 10 a.m. at the base track.

From 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Olympic events such as track and field, bowling, basketball, hockey and other field events will be ongoing.

From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on and off base resource vendors will set up shop in Castle Park. Attendees can speak to representatives from the Exceptional Family Member Program, Lincoln Public Schools, Airman and Family Readiness Center, Child and Youth Programs, Family Advocacy, Tricare, Family Ties of Massachusetts, Federation for Children with Special Needs, Military OneSource, Military Family Life Consultant and more.

"If you've ever wondered if your child might benefit from speech, occupational, physical or behavioral therapy, is struggling in school or suspect may have a disability, we encourage you to stop by, join in the fun and learn what services are available for your family," said Dawn Andreucci, Airman and Family Readiness Center Community Readiness Consultant team leader.

A free lunch, which includes hamburgers and hot dogs, will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Castle Park.

The day continues with an art show at the Youth Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children interested in participating may submit their art work on an 8 1/2 by 11-inch piece of paper to the Airman and Family Readiness Center, in Building 1218, by Sept. 20.

Staff at the center will mount the picture on mat board, and at the art show, attendees will be invited to write messages on the mats. Children can pick up their pictures at the end of the day or the following week at the A&FRC.

The event wraps up with a medal ceremony at the base track at 1:30 p.m.

The Special Olympics and Special Needs Family Fun and Information Fair is open to families from all service branches, Department of Defense civilians and retirees with children with special needs or suspected special needs, whether or not currently enrolled in EFMP.

A quiet room will be available as needed.

"The purpose of the fair is to increase awareness of community support programs, to connect families with each other and to locate, identify and refer as early as possible all young children with disabilities who are in need of early intervention or special education services in a fun and informational atmosphere," said Lisa Pizarro, School Liaison Officer. "Simply put, it's an opportunity for children to have fun and parents to learn more about what services are available here and throughout the area."

Families interested in attending are encouraged to register by Sept. 20 by stopping by the Youth Center or calling 781-225-6043.