December 7, 2017:  A joyous day of giving came early for many special children and adults!  Special Kids Special Families, a local nonprofit organization providing programs for individuals with disabilities, held their annual Christmas party at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Worker’s Local Union #113 facility at 2150 Naegle Road in Colorado Springs.  During this special time of year, SKSF upholds the importance of sharing and giving through this traditional gift giving party.  Hundreds of program participants attended with their families which included children that attend the Zach’s Place childcare center, children in the foster care youth program and adults that participate in the Joey’s Place and ICAN programs.

With donations and gifts provided by several generous organizations like NuStar Energy, WOW Cable, Koscove Metal, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office in addition to several generous donors, hundreds of gifts were handed out by Santa Claus (volunteer Mike Gibson from NuStar).  Kids and adults participated in fun craft projects and a buffet style lunch was provided in which Bill’s Tool Rental donated many delicious smoked turkeys and hams.  In addition to gift giving, several volunteers donated their time to decorate and assist with the party preparations and details. “It’s great to see the smiles on the faces of those receiving a gift by Santa!” says Executive Director, Linda Ellegard. “We appreciate everyone that took the time and effort to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.  It’s awesome to see everyone come together!”

Special Kids Special Families founding program, Zach’s Place, continues to increase enrollment as there is a high demand for respite and child care services for families raising youth with disabilities and special needs.  Zach’s Place at the Laurie Hillyard Family Center is only ONE of two licensed day care centers providing 24/7 care – seven days a week. The center is a lifeline for families raising children with disabilities ages 2.5 through 21.  As Zach’s Place continues to provide low income families an ability to pay based on their income, the center relies on grants and donations from the community to operate.  During this holiday season, visit SKSF’s website at SKSFcolorado.org and learn more about Zach’s Place and other programs supporting individuals with disabilities and ways YOU can help.

VIEW MORE PHOTOS HERE…

James, Chad, John and Harold from NuStar. Liam in the Santa hat and Mike Gibson as Santa

SKSF Board Member, Sarah Kelso with children Molly and Logan with Santa