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Stamford Police Association Marks 60 Years Of Christmas Cheer For ARI

STAMFORD, Conn. -- The Stamford Police Association recently co-hosted its 60th annual holiday party for developmentally disabled adults, in conjunction with Stamford-based non-profit Always Reaching for Independence.

The Stamford Police Association recently co-hosted a holiday party for developmentally disabled adults.

The Stamford Police Association recently co-hosted a holiday party for developmentally disabled adults.

Photo Credit: Contributed

The police association has supported the party since its inception.

“It’s so important to Stamford police officers to be able to demonstrate to ARI clients how important they are to us and the Stamford community,” Stamford Police Association President Sean Boeger said. “As we’ve done for 60 years now, we hold this party to show our strong support for the organization and brighten up the day for the members of the community that they serve. We want each of them to know that police officers are there as a friendly and trusted resource and are always willing to help when they have trouble or a need that must be addressed.”

Created in 1952, ARI's services for people with disabilities include helping students transition from high school to adult life, residential alternatives and job placement.

“Some of our clients don’t have family involved in their lives, so this event may likely be the only holiday party they will attend,” said Gerard Gasparino, ARI manager of development and recreation. “It means a lot for us to be able to bring joy to these adults’ faces and give them a special day to enjoy.”

More than 100 ARI clients attended the holiday party. The festivities included food, dancing, games and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

In addition, Stamford police officers handed out gifts, paid for by members of the police association, to each attendee.

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