First-ever ‘Sneaker Prom’ to be held in Westborough May 31

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Free event is geared for teens with disabilities

First-ever ‘Sneaker Prom’ to be held in Westborough May 31By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor

Westborough – Going to the prom is a rite of passage for many teens. But for kids with intellectual/developmental disabilities, it’s not always something that is available for them.

Now, thanks to the Westborough Recreation Department there is a great option that promises those kids just as much fun.

The Department will be hosting its first ever “Sneaker Prom” on Friday, May 31 from 7-9 p.m. at the Westborough Senior Center. The event will be open to Westborough kids ages 10+ with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

Plans for the evening include a DJ, photo booth, and candy purchased from the BOROS Sugar Shack, which is actually a local business staffed by kids with disabilities.

Helping out that evening will be typically-developing peer volunteers. Kids who participate in the BOROS program can be dropped off; if they are not in the program a parent/guardian will need to remain on site.

Jenn Kirkland, the Recreation Department director, said she was inspired to hold this event after hearing about a successful one in Sudbury.

“It just sounded like such a good idea, a fun thing for these kids to do, so we wanted to try it as well,” she said.

Although kids are welcome to get dressed up, they are also welcome to dress down, she said; hence the name “Sneaker Prom.”

“We wanted to make it casual to take that stress off of spending a lot of money on outfits,” she noted. “Kids can wear whatever they want!”

The event is free but kids must register prior to the event at westbororec.com. Go to register, search activities, and then put sneaker prom in the search bar.  Those wishing to volunteer may also register there as well.

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