The Inter-Agency Recreation Committee (IREC) is hosting a New Year’s-style bash for local adults with developmental disabilities.

“Most of our folks don’t get to go to a big New Year’s party like the rest of us,” said Jean Blachowski, program coordinator for The Arc of Lucas County and representative for People First of Toledo.

IREC is made up of representatives from about 10 area agencies. It aims to foster personal relationships and personal growth of individuals with developmental disabilities.

The New Year’s event started three years ago. About 200 individuals attended the first party and about 400 attended last year’s. This year, the Jan. 4 party at the Grand Plaza Hotel can accommodate up to 600 people.

Dinner will be provided and the band Thunder Road will perform in addition to dancers from Pro-Dance Company. There will also be a photo booth, a ball drop, a toast and a red carpet — complete with “paparazzi” at the end to make the partygoers feel special, Blachowski said.

“[Past attendees] are telling me they’ve had a really good time. They are very excited they had the chance to participate in a party,” she said.

Many of the people IREC helps support don’t have money to attend New Year’s parties that can cost $40-70. The IREC party costs $25 to attend and the price can be supplemented through sponsors.

About 500 individuals have registered so far. Registration is due by Dec. 21 and everyone older than 18 is welcome. To sign up to attend, call (419) 729-3212.

The party is 5-9 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Grand Plaza Hotel, 444 North Summit St., Toledo. For information on sponsorships, call (419) 882-0941.

Tags: Grand Plaza Hotel, Inter-Agency Recreation Committee, Jean Blachowski

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 19th, 2012 at 1:42 pm and is filed under Arts and Life, Events, Holidays.
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