Hundreds of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities gathered at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds on Oct. 7 for a community picnic hosted by Hope Services, a nonprofit organization that provides support to children and adults throughout the region.
The event, held from 10am to 2pm, brought together people served by the organization, their families and community partners for a day of food, activities and socializing.
Hope Services Participants Enjoyed Activities Such as Dancing Face Painting, and Temporary Tattoos during the celebration. (Contributed)
Hope Services serves thousands of people throughout the region, helping them develop skills, build relationships and find opportunities to participate in their communities.
Volunteers from Girlz Squad prepared the food. (Contributed)
The organization also helps people with disabilities find meaningful work, gain independence and develop social connections. For many participants, those opportunities provide a sense of belonging and the chance to make contributions that are valued and appreciated.
The annual picnic has grown into a community event, bringing together several organizations that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Members of Hope’s Aptos Senior Inclusion Center (ASIC) participating in a dance contest. (Contributed)
