Family Fun Day in Frackville held for autism awareness, support
KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / SENTINEL PHOTO - Fire apparatus displays sit in the parking lot of the Frackville Elks behind their marquee, as part of a Family Fun Day hosted for autism awareness on July 15, 2018.
By Kaylee Lindenmuth
FRACKVILLE – Carriage rides, a dunk tank, a chinese auction, emergency apparatus displays, and more could be found at the Frackville Elks Lodge Sunday afternoon, as Diamond Charity Group’s Family Fun Day was held.
Originally scheduled for June 10 though postponed due to weather, the event was held Sunday rain or shine, as the day began with rain showers. Though, by 2:00pm, the skies opened up for a clear to partly cloudy day for the event, which ran from noon to 5pm.
The event, in its fourth year, was organized by the Diamond Charity Group, a group created by a group of co-workers from Black Diamond Bar and Restaurant, Frackville, with the purpose of “creating fundraiser events that benefit local schools as well as further build a fun and supporting community,” according to their website, http://diamondcharitygroup.org/.
In addition, the group purchases items for local residents with autism spectrum disorder. Sherry McGlade, coordinator, noted that, the group had purchased weighted blankets and other items which would benefit the lives of such residents.
According to McGlade, information regarding how to request such items is on their website, which notes recipients must be Schuylkill County residents with a valid ASD diagnosis.
Asked about the goals for the future of the event, McGlade said to continue organize such events and continue the donation program, and potentially organize field trips or other similar events.
“It would not be possible without all of the volunteers and our sponsors and the community, because this is truly a community effort,” said McGlade. “Everyone’s coming together to do it. That’s what we appreciate the most.”
Children in attendance took part in various activities, including a water slide, a prize wheel, a dunk tank, and more.
Home Depot was present with various build-your-own kits, including toy cars, a miniature firehouse, and more, while their volunteers assisted in the event.
Gym-Jam Theraputics, with a location in the Rockwood Center in Cressona, was also present with information and a “Minion” costume attendees could be photographed with while wearing minion goggles, though the heat retired the minion early on in the event.
Two pieces of apparatus from Frackville’s Goodwill Fire Company, as well as an ambulance from Frackville Community Ambulance were on display as well.
Carriage rides, provided by Running Springs Farm, of Spring Glen, Hubley Township, took riders around the block in a horse-drawn carriage.
Inside the Elks lodge, food and refreshments were served alongside a chinese auction.
All proceeds from Sunday’s event benefit the Diamond Charity Group.
About Author
