This year, AHRC Nassau community members were among the 1,100 walkers supporting the AHRC Foundation Walk on October 27 at Eisenhower Park. It was a gorgeous day filled with activities for all ages. Dozens of teams raised funds to help the foundation reach its $100,000 goal.
The Walk also welcomed a new group of community leaders who proudly joined an AHRC Nassau team, the Freeport High School Interact Club. Led by Club Advisor, Brianne Underwood, the club participates in local and international community service projects. The Walk was their introduction to volunteerism with AHRC Nassau and they chose to support The Fabulous Freeport Crew team with a $100 donation.
On event day, six students joined Brianne to walk and celebrate meaningful opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. For the students, it was a great experience seeing the community come together for a common goal. They enjoyed snacks, decorated pumpkins, and danced with fellow walkers. Freeport student Michael enjoyed his first Walk and looks forward to continuing to give back with his peers.
“This is probably my favorite event so far this year,” said Michael. “I like going out and doing activities with my friends. I plan on doing this every year until I graduate.”
About the Fabulous Freeport Crew
The Fabulous Freeport Crew was created by Freeport Program Without Walls (PWW) Site Manager Laura Becker. She has been leading the team for three years, ever since day services attendees Mark Kogan and Michael Costa expressed that they wanted to participate in the annual event. The group started small, initially with people who received services at her site, but was later expanded to include anyone who receives day services in Freeport.
“It’s nice being with your friends and doing things outside of day services,” said Laura.
People who receive day services may live with family or receive residential services through other agencies. By joining the Fabulous Freeport Crew, everyone spent the day with friends, new and old, moving ahead toward a future with more opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities.