A sensational celebration
Photos by DEVIN WEEKS/Press Santa’s helper and Specialized Needs Recreation volunteer Ali Forster passes out candy canes Saturday evening during SNR’s holiday party and 30th anniversary bash at Real Life Ministries in Post Falls.
Santa Claus visits with Specialized Needs Recreation participant David Shiplett of Hayden during SNR’s holiday and anniversary party Saturday in Post Falls.
Specialized Needs Recreation board members take the stage as they're honored for their many contributions to the nonprofit during the SNR Christmas and anniversary party Saturday in Real Life Ministries in Post Falls. (DEVIN WEEKS/Press)
By DEVIN WEEKS
Staff Writer
POST FALLS — Colorful cloths and centerpieces brightened the tables, lights were strewn around the room and every inch of the place was adorned with festive décor.
Specialized Needs Recreation certainly knows how to throw a spectacular celebration.
"It's kind of a big deal for us this year," said Maria-Cristina Jenicek, SNR's administration assistant. "I love our program for the fact that there's not another one like it."
SNR is a nonprofit that offers various programs for youths and adults with learning disabilities, sensory impairments, mental, emotional or physical handicaps. It celebrated its 30th anniversary Saturday evening during its 16th annual Christmas party held at Real Life Ministries in Post Falls.
Around 400 people came to the event, many in spiffy suits with stylin' ties or dazzling dresses with curls, bows and tiaras in their hair.
It was a night to honor board members as well as staff and the many volunteers that keep things running smoothly.
It also served as an evening to honor the participants, past and present, and as a time for them to enjoy a holiday-themed night with their friends and families.
"I'm having fun," said David Shiplett, 29, of Hayden as he put his arm around his fiancé, Shannon Reiter, 36. "It was really a blast."
The couple have attended the SNR Christmas party several times, and they have gone together to several SNR proms.
"It's good to talk to friends," Reiter said with a sweet smile.
The evening included music, an abundance of tasty foods and plenty of time for socialization and photos.
"This is just amazing to see all of these people come together," said SNR program coordinator Debi Miller, who has been working with many of SNR's participants for about 15 years. "Especially tonight, you see all of the years past. We might not be able to see everybody at all of the activities all the time, but on a night like this at the Christmas party, you see people come out with their families.
"They make a point of coming tonight," she continued. "All of the memories that we get to share, I mean, it's just amazing to see how they've grown and what they're doing with their lives. The parents are so willing to say how we've touched their lives, but it's the participants who have touched our lives."