All Smiles at the Annual Summer Picnic hosted by the Gatepath Auxiliary Cathy Nessier, President, Gatepath Auxiliary

The Gatepath Auxiliary hosted its annual summer picnic at Coyote Point for more than 100 individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities in Gatepath’s adult program, Community Access. Co-chaired by Marianne Guttas and Betsy Grotte, the Auxiliary has been hosting this event for more than 20 years!

“We look forward to this event all year long,” said Marianne. Each participant was greeted with smiles from the Auxiliary members, a festive goody bag and enjoyed a variety of activities from bingo to volleyball.

Marianne and Betsy are grateful for the support of Auxiliary members who helped organize the event. The dedication to plan the event was well worth the effort. “It makes us happy to see everyone having a memorable time — smiling and having fun!” said Betsy.

Auxiliary members brought their husbands, children and grandchildren to help with the event, which included a barbecue lunch, root beer floats, games, a photo booth, temporary tattoos and dancing!

“I look forward to the picnic every year because I get to dance with my friends and eat good food,” said Nancy (AKA Princess Nancy), an attendee who participates in Gatepath’s adult program.

Coincidently, Nancy’s birthday was the same day as the picnic and she got to celebrate with endless servings of ice cream and socializing with her friends. Nancy said her favorite part of this year’s picnic was winning a friendly competition of ring toss.

If you’re interested in volunteering, or being a member of the Gatepath Auxiliary, please let us know by sending an email to info@gatepathauxiliary.org.