Courtesy photo
Friendship Day at Turtle Back Zoo
Over 700 special needs students, their teachers, and aides had smiles on their faces for the Elks 46th annual Friendship Day at Turtle Back Zoo on October 2, 2023. The event was sponsored by area Elks club members.
It was a perfect Fall day for participants to walk around the park and learn about the animals on display while enjoying activities, games, a DJ, and face painting sponsored by Elks from the North Central District.
Meanwhile, Elks from the East Central District, with Lodges in Stirling, Summit, Mountainside, Springfield, Cranford, Union, and Rahway, provided, prepared, and served 1,200 hot dog meals to hungry visitors.
Elks Care – Elks Share. And Friendship Day is one of many ways that the Elks turn those words into action. Throughout NJ, Elks provide assistance for the caring of special needs children. The Elks maintain clinics, hire nurses, therapists, pediatricians, psychologists, and teachers as well as provide equipment such as crutches, wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds to those in need. In addition, Elks Camp Moore provides special needs children with a fun-filled vacation away from home where they can try new adventures, create lasting friendships, and experience opportunities that promote independence and greater self-confidence.
Please visit Elks.org for more information and how to join The Elks.
