OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY – Wendell Foster, a local 501(c)3 non-profit organization serving people with disabilities, will host its “Close-Ups with the Clauses” event on Saturday, November 23 in the Elmer Administration Building on Wendell Foster’s campus, located on 815 Triplett Street in Owensboro. The event will begin with a sensory-friendly hour from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, and will open for all other attendees from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Close-Ups with the Clauses is free and open to the public.

The event includes portraits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, complimentary refreshments, and activities. The organization, which provided 65,000 services to adults and children with disabilities in 2023, added the sensory-friendly hour at last year’s event for individuals who are on the autism spectrum or have sensory-related challenges. During the sensory-friendly hour, music will be turned off and loud noises will be discouraged to promote a calming, quiet environment. Flash photography will not be used during the sensory-friendly hour. Each attendee who takes a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus will receive a link to digitally download their photo after the event.

Kara Howard, Vice President of Development and Community Engagement at Wendell Foster, said the organization started the event in 2022 to welcome community members to the campus to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season together. “Close-Ups with the Clauses has quickly become a cherished holiday tradition,” said Howard. “We’re thrilled to welcome families back to Wendell Foster to enjoy this festive experience together. By including the sensory-friendly hour, we hope to provide an inclusive and joyful environment where everyone can make memories this season.”

No reservations are required in order to attend the event.