The Valentine’s Day dance was a first for the Fairfield organization, but the fun it generated for more than three dozen participants will likely make it a new, annual tradition.
Vickie Rogers, ATT program director, said a big part of the dance’s creation was to due to “our DJ, Jacob Hardesty. He has autism and has his own DJ business. He does a fantastic job and he’s played for Kings Island, and special buddies events.”
“It was our first Valentine’s Day party. They (ATT members) like to be treated normal. They just had a blast and that’s all that matters to me.”
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The ATT organization’s mission is to “promote health, wellness, self-reliance, community integration and skills development for our members through education, exercise and preventative measures to ensure a healthier lifestyle.”
According to ATT’s website “Employment Services Program assists each participant to learn the skills needed to transition into community living, work and employment. Our program provides participants with a wide variety of stimulating activities that enhance their education, recreation, work-employment opportunities, community integration and other essential programs.”
One of the happiest dancers at the Valentine’s Day dance was Monica McQueen.
“I liked it. I had very much fun and I like to dance,” said McQueen.
Being in the family-like and supportive atmosphere of ATT is important to her, she said.
“It makes me feel good and special because people care,” she said.
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