AEDD luncheon targets successes
An active, successful 2019 for the Arkansas Enterprises for the Developmentally Disabled (AEDD) Auxiliary was chronicled and celebrated at the group’s Valentines Luncheon, a Feb. 13 event that also marked the auxiliary’s 12th anniversary. Members and their guests gathered at the agency’s Multipurpose Center to enjoy a buffet luncheon by RX Catering and fancy cupcake desserts packaged to go. Each attendee received a thank-you gift bag containing a candle made by AEDD clients, and stationery featuring art by Terry, also a client.
Debbie Grooms, director of development, welcomed members, who introduced their guests. Auxiliary president Kathleen Kennally shared remarks. Sam Sanders, the Valentine’s Dayborn founder of AEDD, was recognized; attendees sang “Happy Birthday” in honor of his 93rd trip around the sun.
The luncheon was also a meeting. In addition to the usual business, the agenda included a spotlight on the agency’s Jobs 4 You program and remarks by Kim Gatewood, a program graduate who works with the Governor’s Council at the state Capitol.
A slide show of auxiliary activities and accomplishments during the previous year was shown, as well as a preview of AEDD’s forthcoming fundraisers: a Luau Party, scheduled for April 30; Curtain Call for a Cause, a major annual event coming up May 28-29; the 2020 Tee Off Classic, slated for Sept. 14; and Hawgs for a Cause, AEDD’s annual, Arkansas Razorbacks-theme fall benefit, happening Oct. 15.
After the luncheon, auxiliary members posed for a group photo. Guests were encouraged to join the auxiliary.