Hermosa Beach Kiwanis celebrate with the Easter Seals Program
Photo submitted by Jane Walker
The Hermosa Beach Kiwanis Club held its annual luncheon in support of the Easter Seals Program for Developmentally Disabled Adults on Dec. 18. at the local Kiwanis Hall.
“The Kiwanis luncheon is the most generous support the Easter Seals Program receives from any local community,” said Patricia Kingery, Easter Seals Advisor to the Aktion Club, in a press release from the Kiwanis Club. “It is thrilling for the program participants. They just love it, it’s something they talk about all year,”
The Easter Seals Adult Day Program is a national community whose goal is to enable developmentally disabled participants to go out in the community and work on their independent living skills and serves both children and adults who have developmental disabilities. The lunch was co-hosted by the Aktion Club, a separate activity within Kiwanis composed of developmentally disabled members.
“The Aktion Club loves being a part of the Kiwanis family,” said Greg Ronkainen, Kiwanis Advisor to the Aktion Club. “They really enjoy working side by side with the Kiwanians in arranging and organizing the luncheon. It gives them a feeling of achievement.”
Santa made an appearance at the event and handed out presents to all the guests.
“As I look around the room and see all those bright smiles and happy faces, it reminds me of how it is possible to reach out into the community and make a difference and makes me especially proud to be a Kiwanian,” said Mark Goldstein, Hermosa Kiwanis Club President.
Santa’s helpers handed out raffle tickets, and Mr. Claus stayed throughout the lunch to take wishes and photographs. ER