The event will include a dozen local service providers offering free information about resources and programs available to individuals with special needs.
“While parents and caregivers are speaking to service providers, children with special needs can participate in a sensory storytime and other activities led by library staff,” says Programming Manager Tracy Walker.
Representatives from Alexander Academy, Behavior Link Behavioral Consultants, Forsyth Autism and Special Needs Support Group, North Georgia Equine in Motion, and Parent to Parent of Georgia are expected to speak with participants.
“We’re also looking forward to having Debbie Dobbs, a local health care consultant, talk with families about ways to advocate for patients with special needs when working with doctors, therapists, and hospitals,” says Walker.
Several governmental organizations, including Forsyth County Parks & Recreation, Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities, and Forsyth County Schools will also participate.
Leaders from such charitable organizations as Cumming Forsyth County Miracle League, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, and Boy Scouts of America will provide information on local sports programs and social activities for children and young adults with disabilities or other special needs.
Information about the library’s own sensory and American Sign Language (ASL) storytime programs, crafting and computer classes, Special Needs Library Hour events, and services for patrons with visual impairments will also be available.
“We want to remind our community that our libraries are open and welcoming to everyone, including individuals with special needs. We hope that offering events like the Special Needs Resource Fair will make it easier for families to connect with each other and with the organizations that can give their loved ones the resources they need to live their best life,” says Walker.
Admission to the Special Needs Resource Fair is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit www.forsythpl.org.
