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Shine a Light

I’d like to thank the many volunteers for Community Awareness Day on Sept. 30 at Chatfield Hollow State Park. The purpose of the special event was to shine a light on all the wonderful programs the shoreline has to offer to parents and caregivers of those with exceptionalities.

Although the weather was a little dicey, we were able to come together as a community to make new friends and learn about existing programs and opportunities. We were blessed to have many supporters, friends, and participants on hand. I’d especially like to thank Kristin Juaire and Vista Life Innovations for their enthusiastic support and creative activities including the pumpkin painting and community art projects. Representatives from organizations including SEPTO, High Hopes, Top Soccer, Madison Little League Buddy Baseball, Unified Sports (DHHS), A Place for Us, 1Big Circle, MPS Special Education, and the Strong House participated and contributed to a very positive atmosphere.

I’d also like to thank State Representative Noreen Kokoruda (R-101) and First Selectman Tom Banisch (R) for taking time to learn about the available programs and offerings. Thanks also go to Mr. David Mikus and Rev. Shariya Molegoda from St. Andrews Episcopal Church for their generosity and logistical support (tables and chairs) and Molly Sawyer, Maeve Merkle-Scotland, Cassie Williams, and Lena Conway for their willingness to do whatever it took to keep the party going (face painting, henna, etc.). I’d also like to give a shout out to the many scouts and adult leaders from Boy Scout Troop 490 who made sure the event went smoothly from beginning to end. Finally, I want to thank Cohen’s Bagels for its generosity in fueling the event.

Coming together reminded me about the importance of community—and what a special community it is. I thank everyone again for all of their support.

Luke Conway

Madison