Everything was perfect for the recent private event for Autism Cares Foundation, the Second Annual Special Needs Family Fun Night at Clementon Park and Splash World.
The drizzle gave way to sunshine, the park was closed to the public, parking was free, and only open to families caring for a loved one with special needs on Tuesday, August 1, at Clementon Park and Splash World in Clementon, New Jersey.
Nearly 600 participants, including a dozen volunteers, enjoyed the three-hour event, and the families say they are already looking forward to next year. A donation of $5 from each $15 ticket sold was donated to Autism Cares Foundation.
From the moment the special needs children, teens, and adults entered the
park and saw the huge wave pool, the many water slides, and other rides and games, there were smiles of joy on their faces.
"We were here last year and had to come back, because my 15-year-old son, Jacob, had such a great time," said Shannon Schiavo, of Franklinville, N.J. The family outing included his brother, Michael, 12, and his father, Justin, and everyone clearly enjoyed the old-fashioned family fun. "We love the atmosphere; it's such a great time," she said, "and we don't have to worry about anyone judging him or his behaviors."
Schiavo was so enthusiastic about the event that she posted a message to the Parent-Teacher Organization website at her son's school, encouraging everyone to attend.
"This is a true blessing. This is something we can do for these families and children that gives them a chance to come out and enjoy themselves at our park," said Margie Ford, director of sales and marketing. "
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy Clementon Park & Splash World, and it makes us all feel so gratified to do this. We love having everyone here!"
An evening at a local water park is one of the best ways to cool off during the summer; but being able to bring children, teens, and adults with autism, and other special needs, meant a safe, fun, and family-friendly time where everyone could be themselves.
The magical night was sponsored by 95.7 BEN FM in order to reach out to a broader sector of the special needs community, and to benefit the Autism Cares Foundation, a non-profit that provides programs, events and life enrichment opportunities to children, teens, and adults with autism and other special needs, and their families.
"We want to thank the folks at Clementon Park and Splash World for hosting the Second Annual Event for us," said Frank Kuepper, Co-founder and President of the Autism Cares Foundation. "The parents are extremely appreciative of Clementon Park and Ben FM for forging this partnership with the Autism Cares Foundation," he said. "We look forward to many more years of seeing these miles of smiles at this event."
Debra Forman, Director of Communications
