Nearly 100 children and adults with developmental disabilities attended the Red Bank Elks’ holiday party on Decemmber 15, an annual tradition featuring clowns, balloons, singing, food and Santa himself.  The guest list included participants of The Arc of Monmouth’s Recreation programs as well as Elks’ family members with developmental disabilities.

The Arc of Monmouth presented a “thank you” plaque to Butch Della Pietro (pictured right), chairman of the Special Needs Children committee, who has organized this event for the past 25 years.

“We are so grateful to Butch and the Elks for their longtime support of individuals with developmental disabilities”, said Cindy Wiegers, The Arc’s Director of Recreation.  “Social interaction is so critical to the well being of people with disabilities, and the Elks understand that and take pride in this event”.

The Arc of Monmouth is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, serving more than 1,300 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through education, vocational training, residential services, health care, supported employment, recreation, individual and family supports, self-directed services and advocacy.