Stamford, CT – ARI of Connecticut, Inc. will host the 16th Annual Walk for Independence on Sunday, April 24th at Cove Island Park. This will be the first in-person Walk since 2019 and will be open for the public to attend. The past 2 years have been challenging for ARI of Connecticut, Inc., an organization providing services for individuals with developmental disabilities in Stamford. As the concerns of COVID-19 remain, ARI continues to provide the highest quality of service to nearly 100 individuals that rely on residential and day supports. This support is not only necessary, but also extraordinary!
This year ARI will honor Gail Malloy (posthumously) and Bob Bryson. Gail was a staple in the Stamford community. She served on the board of directors of ARI during the 2000s and 2010s. Gail was a fixture at the ARI Walk for many years and advocated strongly for ARI and services for people with developmental disabilities. Bob has been involved with ARI for nearly 70 years! Bob’s son Matthew attended the ARI nursery school and received ARI services. Bob served on the board of directors during the 1960s and 1970s, was a recreation volunteer, coached the Special Olympics and chaperoned many vacations for individuals served by ARI.
Mayor Caroline Simmons and other local representatives are expected to be on hand, joining the Stamford Police in leading the Walk. Dance With El will be on site for a warm-up activity along with the Ha Ha Gang clowns from Stamford Hospital to brighten up everyone’s day. The Stamford DPH will also set up a COVID Vaccination tent for those needing vaccines. All festivities will begin at 10:00am.
Corporate Sponsors for this event include Distance Sponsors Berkowitz & Hanna, Connecticare, Connecticut Pharmacy, FD Rich, The Kiwanis Club of Stamford, ShopRite, Stamford Health, The Umbrella Club, and Workers’ Compensation Trust; Pace Setter Sponsors Baybrook Remodelers, Carmody, Torrance,Sandak, Hennessey, LLP, First County Bank, J&A Mechanical Service, and the Community Thrift Shop. Print Sponsor MBA Graphics. Warm-Up Sponsor Dance With El.
For more information or to register to walk, become a sponsor or donate visit www.arict.org or contact Gerard Gasparino, Manager of Development at 324-9258, ext. 3023 or email gasparinog@arict.org.
ARI of Connecticut, Inc.: Enriching the lives of people with disabilities and their families by enabling them to achieve their fullest potential at home, at work and in the community.
