Sunday, Dec. 8 was an exciting day at the Hella Shrine Temple, the location for the 2019 Special Ones Network Christmas party. Looking more crowded than ever before, special needs individuals of all ages, along with their families, enjoyed numerous activities. (Event photos below.)
Special Ones Network founder Kristal Davis and her husband, Dean, are grateful for the growth the event has enjoyed since it began 12 years ago. The couple discovered that there were not enough events for special needs individuals and set out to change that. In addition to the Christmas party, the nonprofit also hosts an annual Easter Egg Hunt as well as a swimming party and Vacation Bible School.
Party-goers enjoyed lunch and dessert, pictures with Santa and each received a gift. There were games and crafts tables where attendees could make Christmas tree ornaments and everyone enjoyed the face painting.
Members of the Bikers Against Cancer organization were in attendance, along with the Ghostbusters and their special vehicles. The Garland Fire Department brought an engine out for attendees to explore. They also had the opportunity to interact with the Shriners clowns and a couple of service dogs brought out by their owners.
Christmas and popular dance music were played by a DJ and many attendees seemed to enjoy dancing more than anything else!
Family and friends of the Davis family put in lots of time and effort for the Special Ones Network events, which would not be possible without these volunteers’ help. There are also numerous donors and other groups that make the event possible. Kristal and Dean would like to express their gratitude for all the donations and assistance.
About SON: “The goal of Special Ones Network is to host events for all types of special needs individuals and their families. Living with an autistic child ourselves, we know activities are practically non-existent for these special ones. Our desire is to change this, one event at a time! The Special Ones Network is a 501c3 all-volunteer organization. One hundred percent of all donations goes toward events. The organization’s president and CEO is Kristal Davis. Dean Davis is the vice-president.” Information from Special Ones Network website.
