AROUND TOWN: Special Kids Special Families danced the night away

They could have danced all night, and most of the celebrants at the Black & White Gala gave it a good shot.

BJ Estares & Route 61 had barely warmed up when the dance floor was full at Manitou Springs Memorial Hall on Oct. 22 and the ones having the most fun were the smiling, energetic people with disabilities served by the nonprofit. Jesse, Sarah and Adrian were just a few of those who thoroughly enjoyed their special night.

Emcee Shannon Brinias showed some good dance moves, too, and even tried to keep up with Jesse, who danced the night away.

The evening also included a catered meal by the Mitchell family and a raffle for a wide variety of themed baskets.

It was an opportunity for Linda Ellegard and her staff to visit with supporters and to get the word out that some young people will wait 10 years for services. The lucky ones were those laughing and dancing at the gala.

Missing his first SKSF event in a long time was  Linda’s husband, Bill Lawrence, who was sent get-well wishes all evening long.

Theresa Jordan told the story of her son Trenton, who was born blind. At 14 months old he quit talking and has never said another word. Trenton is now 16 years old, nonverbal, severely autistic, hits himself and can be abusive. Sometimes his bed linens need to be changed four or five times a night. She loves Trenton, said his mother, but sometimes she needs a little time away. SKSF’s Zach’s Place respite care has been important to their family for those needed moments and are important for Trenton, who is cared for by a trained staff that understands his needs, she said.

Online: sksfcolorado.org
More photos: gazettephoto.mycapture.com