Middle School Open Rec: Thursday, Dec. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. Dungeons and Dragons and/or Magic the Gathering will meet on Thursday, Dec. 27, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Self Advocacy for Teens: Dec. 27, 2 to 3 p.m. Geared towards teens with special needs but open to anyone age 13 to 18 who wants to explore how to advocate for themselves. This one-hour workshop will cover the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), two important laws for those with an identified disability. Transition planning, and how to prepare to attend meetings where others are making decisions for you will be addressed. Refreshments will be served. Call by Dec. 22 to register for this free program.
Community Service Opportunities: We still have spaces for high school helpers at Open Rec programs and as Peer Educators. Must be responsible, able to work well with adults and willing to model appropriate social behavior. Call AnneMarie to request more information 860-844-5355
Zombie Shuffle: The Youth Action Council is pleased to report that the first parent/child Zombie Shuffle was a success. Over 40 kids from Wells Road School grabbed a parent and came to dance and play the night away in the community room at the Senior/Youth Youth Service Bureau Service Building. This will become an annual event, and hopefully as word spreads about how much fun it is, the Youth Action Council will not only break even on the dance, but will be able to use any profit towards the annual scholarship the YAC group funds. Each year it gives a $500 scholarship to a graduating boy and girl from GMHS, honoring the quiet/ unsung leaders of the class.
Last year the YAC group held its first Sweet Heart Dance for Kelly Lane kids and parents. Another Sweet Heart Dance will be held on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. Kids in grades K–2 can grab a beloved adult, and get dressed up to come dance and craft and play Valentine’s themed games. Refreshments will be served. So if you have a kiddo in Kelly Lane, save the date. Call the YSB to register to attend. Tickets are $10 a pair, with a $20 cap for families. Any proceeds will go towards the YAC scholarship program.