The occasionwas a holiday dance for those with special needs and their caregivers. The Edison Visionary Lions Club sponsored the event with the Edison Recreation Department to bring joy to the lives of these individuals.
Besides being fun, such events offer an inclusive caring environment that builds confidence, said Mahesh Chitnis, event chair for the Lions Club.
“It builds balance, coordination and overall health and brings them as close to normal life as possible. Their enthusiasm and zeal were unparalleled. Many individuals came to the members and thanked them personally for arranging such a special night for them,” Chitnis said.
Members of the Bonhamtown, Oak Tree, Clara Barton and Stelton seniors clubs, the Edison Senior Citizens Center and Bear Creek assisted living were in attendance. Dressed in formal attire, everyone came to the event with a broad smile and an upbeat outlook.
“They came in because they love to dance and meet friends,” Chitnis said. “From autistic and nonverbal to high energy and talkative, everyone enjoyed the food and goody bags provided by the Edison Visionary Lions Club.”
Club members danced with the attendees, taught them steps, served food and had a great time interacting with them.special valentines day flowers ideas
Mayor Antonia Ricigliano attended to wish everyone a happy holiday. Lion John Kobland, first vice district governor of Lions, District 16-D, was also in attendance and inducted two new members into the Edison Visionary Lions Club after the dance. Rutgers Visionary Lions Club Charter President Melanie Krutzel and several other community leaders also attended.
“It is one of the events that Edison Visionary Lions Club is really proud of,” Chitnis said.
Because of budget cuts, the township eliminated funding for this project, and the Edison Visionary Lions Club stepped forward to continue the tradition.
“Everybody present at the dance really appreciated the efforts put in by the members,” Chitnis said. “The employees of Edison recreation provided immense support in managing the event.”
To volunteer for the Valentine’s Day Dance, contact the charter president of Edison Visionary Lions by emailing mahesh.chitnis@visionarylions.org.
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