OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY – Wendell Foster, a local non-profit agency serving people with disabilities, will host its “Close-Ups with the Clauses!” event on Saturday, December 2 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 2:00 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 over 75,000 services to adults and children with disabilities in 2022, added the sensory-friendly hour for individuals who are on the autism spectrum or have sensory-related challenges. During the sensory-friendly hour, lights will be lowered and music will be turned off to promote a calming, quiet environment. 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 purpose of the event is to welcome community members to the campus to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season together. “Last year, this event was a true highlight of 2022. Coming together with children and adults, with and without disabilities, for experiences and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus brought joy to so many,” explained Howard. “We are thankful we get to host it again! By offering the new sensory hour, we hope that those who prefer a less stimulating environment will be able to enjoy the same holiday spirit at Wendell Foster.” 

No reservations are required in order to attend the event. For questions on Close-Ups with the Clauses, please contact Kirk Aldridge, Community Engagement Specialist, at (270) 852-1460 or at [email protected].