STEUBENVILLE — Area families are invited to enjoy games, food and inclusive activities during the fifth annual Special Connections Summer Bash Carnival on July 11.

The free event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the School of Bright Promise, 256 John Scott Highway. Activities will include games, prizes, food, face painting, hair tinsel, baby goats from Heart to Homestead, appearances by Destiny Dog and more.

Special Connections is a partnership among the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Crossroads Christian Church and the Special Needs Parents Support in the Ohio Valley Facebook group. The organization hosts events throughout the year designed to provide inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities and their families.

Mindy Aleksiejczyk, co-founder of Special Connections and president of the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, said organizers expect this year’s carnival to be the largest yet after drawing about 150 attendees annually.

“We will be having better games and we have a different location this year that will make things more accessible,” Aleksiejczyk said. “The purpose is to provide an event in our community that is inclusive where every ability can attend and enjoy with the whole family.”

Special Connections received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status earlier this year, allowing it to pursue grants and donations to expand its programming. In addition to the summer carnival, the organization hosts a sensory-friendly Santa event, an inclusive Easter egg hunt and educational programs for families.

For more information, contact Aleksiejczyk at (740) 457-9941 or email SpecialConnections@gmail.com.