This October, people living in and near Arlington will have the chance to greet the Autumn season while also benefitting Shepherd’s Haven. This is an incredible organization that has been working hard for people with special needs for decades. Beginning back in the 1980’s, the Shepherd’s Haven organization provides people with disabilities with somewhere safe to go. They have built a home for both men and women, where they can enjoy an array of activities that they may not otherwise be able to do, including going to the library, the gym, swimming, crafts, and visiting new places, such as the zoo or Mud Island, almost every day.

 Their Fall Festival is a great chance to do your part in bettering the residents’ lives. The festivities kick off at Arlington High School at 1:00 pm and continue until 5:00 pm Saturday, October 28th. While at the festival, you can enjoy hot air balloons, pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatables, carnival games, little train rides, food vendors, a craft sale, and more.. “We have 150 volunteers and up to 2500 people attending. It is also a way to introduce the men and ladies to the community. We give everyone a card with the name of our residents, kids have to get their bio cards—it basically gives our men and women celebrity status as all of the kids find them, meet them and put a face with special needs instead of a label,” Mayo explained. “It really helps the community understand a little more about what we do and who our people are.” Last year, 1,000 people attended, and this year, they are expecting even more. Keep an eye out for our article on the Shepherd’s Haven to be featured in an upcoming issue.

For more information on the work that Shepherd’s Haven does or on their Fall Festival, you can call (901) 347-5296 or visit ShepherdsHaven.org. Children are welcomed to wear their Halloween costumes to the event and have the chance to win candy while they enjoy the many games! Entry is just $5 per person with a $25 maximum for families!