With a fast-moving society, groups of people can become overlooked. Thanks to New Gateways, Inc. and a slew of area volunteers, many disabled adults will not find themselves in such a group.
American Legion Chief Pontiac Post 377 in Independence Township hosts ‘Forgotten Angels? fund-raiser from 6 ?10 p.m. on May 6.
Proceeds from the event go to New Gateways, Inc., a former Easter Seals program, designed to help developmentally disabled adults, who often slip through the cracks, socialize and venture into the community.
‘Everyone remembers the mentally and physically disabled child, but forget about that child as an adult,? said Ellen Langdon, a member of the auxiliary unit at Post 377. ‘It’s sad. Once the baby face leaves people leave. (People) don’t want to look at my angels in public. They think they’ve gone away. They are human beings who have fun and love and care.?
The night includes an array of activities including a live and silent auction, raffles, buffet table, dollar store and live DJ. Fund-raising efforts still need donated auction and craft items to help meet the night’s goals.
‘We’d like to raise $10,000,? said Independence Township resident Lillian Machowski.
Both Langdon and Machowski understand first hand what such a program like New Gateways, Inc. can mean.
Langdon worked with the program when it was part of Easter Seals and drove disabled adults to and from their community activities like shopping or parks.
‘If it wasn’t for programs like this, they’d be just going to workshops. This gets them out in the community so they’re not stuck indoors and forgotten about,? said Langdon.
Machowski and her late husband Edward became involved with helping disabled adults after having a disabled daughter named Marsha.
‘They are learning to communicate with other people. When you sit at home with the tube on, what do you have?? said Machowski, who believes the help to families with disabled adults is paramount.
‘When you have someone like our Marsha’it’s a 24/7 job at home. In this program they socialize and get out.?
Despite Marsha’s passing, Machowski continues to work with the program serving on the New Gateways, Inc. board of directors and with the parents group, which helps with fund-raising.
‘I feel these people still need help,? said Machowski. ‘I think this is so important.?
For those looking to donate auction items or money, call Ellen at 248-628-5483 or New Gateways, Inc. at 248-538-7830.
American Legion Chief Pontiac Post 377 is located at 4819 Mary Sue Road.