ACCESS (Adapting and Changing Children’s Environments with Successful Solutions), a locally founded nonprofit fund of the Northshore Community Foundation that supports children with disabilities and their families, has announced that its 10th annual Boo Fest will be held on the grounds of Lakeview Regional Medical Center on Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.. Early admission begins at 9 a.m. for families of children with disabilities.
This popular, all-abilities, Halloween event features trick or treating, games, arts and crafts, and other entertainment including sing-alongs, a dance party, photo booth, and costume contest.
In addition, attendees can meet grant recipient families and see how contributions to ACCESS directly support these families who have a child with a disability. “This inclusive event gives every child, including those with disabilities such as mobility impairment or sensory issues, an opportunity to have some serious Halloween fun!,” said ACCESS Vice-Chairman and Event Co-Chair LeaAnne Krieger. “We feel that every parent, too, should have a chance to see their child experience the events in life that many of us take for granted.”
All proceeds from Boo Fest benefit children with disabilities and their families, but is open to children of all abilities.
Admission is $2 per person.
“We are grateful for the immense community support and participation at Boo Fest we have had through the years. Last year we had nearly10,000 guests attend,” said Dr. Aaron Karlin, ACCESS chairman. “This event provides more than just a fun day for kids; it also teaches acceptance and empathy, by creating an opportunity for children who don’t face daily challenges to connect with children who do.” The wheelchair accessible walking path around the duck ponds and green space adjacent to Lakeview Regional Medical Center allow children of all abilities to travel house-to-house collecting Halloween treats. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costume and take part in the annual Boo Fest costume contest competing for the titles of “Cutest”, “Scariest,” “Most Original,” or “Best Group.”