Special needs fair scheduled Published Oct. 7, 2013 By Mark Wyatt 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The base will hold its fourth annual Special Needs Family Fun and Information Fair Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hanscom Lanes. The event is for families from all service branches with children with special needs or suspected special needs, whether or not currently enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program, or EFMP. "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. This year's fair will feature free bowling, face painting, and an art show. Children interested in participating in the art show may submit their art work on an eight-and-a-half by 11-inch piece of paper to the Airman and Family Readiness Center, in Building 1218, by Oct.18. Pizza and other refreshments will be available, and there will be a variety of giveaways. Representatives from base and community resources will be on hand to give out information and answer questions about their services. 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 looking for further information on the fair may contact Dawn Andreucci at 781-225-2765, Lisa Pizarro at 781-225-1482 or Laurel Wironen at 781-377-6005. Base and community agencies invited to attend include: . Family Ties of Massachusetts . Easter Seals . The Federation for Children with Special Needs . Minuteman Early Intervention Program . Lincoln Public Schools . Military OneSource . Hanscom Child and Youth Programs . Hanscom School Liaison Officer . 66th Medical Squadron EFMP Coordinator . Airman and Family Readiness Center . Military Family Life Consultant