Having fun at the fair while supporting Kulanu

Both children and adults doubled their fun as the beautiful weather and exciting attractions made Kulanu’s annual community fair at Andrew J. Parise Cedarhurst Park the place to be last Sunday.

The fair raises money for the Cedarhurst-based Center for Special Services. “It is important to support Kulanu for the wonderful work that they do for the special needs children in the community,” said Jay Goldmark, a Woodmere resident.

A dunk tank, bounce house, super slide, mini-ferris wheel, swing ride, as well as various games, including “krazy kans” and a bottle toss attracted fair-goers. Children enjoyed face painting, balloons, and horseback rides, and munched on cotton candy, popcorn and hot dogs. “My favorite attraction was the super slide because it went so high and was so much fun,” said Aaron Zanger, 10, of Woodmere.

The various performances, and raffles for sports tickets and memorabilia caught everyone’s attention. Volunteers ran the attractions, and the carnival was sponsored by local businesses, including the Herald.

“It’s a great feeling to help support Kulanu and local community members with special needs,” said Gabriel Miller, 14, of Woodmere, who helped man the prize booth. Ed Ruane, owner of Life Clubs in Lawrence, said: “Kulanu is a great organization, and we employ their students at our gym to gain work experience in the personal fitness industry.”

Kulanu provides support and inclusion services for special needs children and teenagers, according to Jonathan Cooper, Director of Support and Inclusion Services.

“We have grown to include a school, as well as Camp Discovery, after-school and weekend programs, and respite services,” Cooper said. “The point of our program is to support all aspects of services for special needs children and their families.”

Parents of special needs children need guidance and Kulanu helps to provide that as well.

“Our program helps parents go through the difficult challenges when their children are diagnosed with special needs,” said Amy Eisenberg, Director of Parent Advocacy and Support Services. “We link them up to services and help them through the educational process,” she added.