Health

Last Updated on Wednesday, 30 March 2016 14:22

Over 50 service agencies will gather at 50 Donati Road in Bethel Park on Saturday, April 30, 2016 for the Southwestern Pennsylvania Special Needs Fair & Expo.

The event, which is free and open to the public, is geared toward children and young adults with special needs and their family members.

“We noticed a need for this in the area,” said Tom Kelton, event chair and certified special education teacher. “There are so many great opportunities available and we wanted to help get the word out in a fun and interactive way.”

Some of the fair activities planned to date include a visit from a Bethel Park Fire Department truck, roaming costumed characters from Angels of the Heart, a demonstration by Romibo the Robot, play time with therapy dogs from Canine Assist, a Scholastic book fair, face-painting, a bounce house, bingo, art instruction, music performances, prizes, festival food and more.

In addition to the activities, families will be able to speak with professionals representing a wide-range of services, such as Shriners Hospital; EKidzCare; Exceptional Adventures; Mainstay Life Services; Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania; Parent-Child Interaction Therapy; Autism Speaks; and WHS Children’s Therapy Center.

“We have been thrilled with the response so far,” said Kelton, who said that he and the other organizers hope that it will become an annual event.

The Special Needs Fair & Expo will feature both indoor and outdoor activities, and it will take place rain or shine. It is made possible with the help of several local sponsors, including the Bethel Park Community Foundation and Evey True Value Hardware.

To find out more about the vendors who will be participating, or to inquire about becoming a vendor, go to “Special Needs Fair & Expo” on Facebook, email specialneedsfairpa@gmail.com, or call 412-394-5514.