Santa Comes to Town for LWSRA

The Lincolnway Special Recreation Association threw a Christmas party for the special needs community on Monday, December 19th. It was held at Lion’s Community Center at 1 Manor Drive which is apart of the New Lenox Community Park District. The event was attended by 170 people and lasted from 6pm - 8pm.

The event was quick to reached maximum capacity for the Lions Center and event planners had to book an extra room to accommodate all. “It was well attended, nice to see such a great turn out by our families and staff,” states Tami Pareti, who is the coordinator of Special Olympics and Fitness at LWSRA and headed the event, “This is a great way to celebrate the holidays.” LWSRA invited families from all five of their associated park districts and also branched out to new participants in the townships of Wilmington and Elwood.

Attendees were treated to crafts tables and gift wrapping was provided as a service. A catered dinner was also provided and during the meal, a visit from Santa Claus surprised visitors. Old St. Nick took time to take pictures with everyone and give out small gifts in anticipation for Christmas.

The Christmas Party was made free due in part to the generosity of Old Plank Trail Community Bank, who was the primary sponsor of the event. Contributions were also given by Providence Bank and Liberty Mutual insurance agent Ken Horn. Mr. Horn donates $5 directly to LWSRA for every free car and home insurance quote given throughout the year.

LWSRA would like to thank everyone for their support and making the 2011 Christmas Party a success. LWSRA provides social and recreational opportunities to over 250 individuals with special needs a year for the park districts of Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Manhattan, and Peotone. Further information can be requested at (815) 464-2811 and found at www.lwsra.org.