The many local children and teens on the autism spectrum, their families, and the nearly 100 Newtown High School National Honors Society volunteers who gathered to support activities hosted by the grassroots service group Families United in Newtown had more "FUN" than ever in 2016, as founder Linda Jones looked back on what she described as the busiest and most successful year yet.

Ms Jones started fundraising in 2008 with a dream of providing recreational programs and respite for families with special needs children. One year later, following the tragic death of her son and Newtown High School student, Tyler, the program blossomed with the support of his classmates and National Honors Society students.

In October 2010 the group held its first monthly meeting in memory of Tyler, and has hosted regular meetings ever since throughout the school year. The ultimate goal of FUN is to provide a recreational outlet for families with special needs children as well as promoting autism awareness.

That goal is closer than ever to being fully realized after what Ms Jones said was the best year ever for the group both in terms of participation and fundraising to help underwrite the increasing number of activities and the growing number of her Newtown neighbors who are taking advantage of some or all of FUN's offerings.

A Growing Challenge

According to autismspeaks.org, it is estimated that one in 68 children will be diagnosed with some form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism and ASD are general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors.

ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention, and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. And Ms Jones believes that families like hers with one or more children on the spectrum often minimize or avoid large public gatherings, either because of the social challenges their children may present, or because they are so overtaxed at home just trying to manage the often complex needs and dynamics of an entire family, that they just do not go out or interact much - especially with peers who may be facing the same concerns.

With that in mind, last fall FUN hosted its first respite dinner where NHS Honors Society and culinary program students collaborated to provide a set table dinner for about a dozen sets of parents in the new high school cafetorium, while other students led activities for their children in an adjacent classroom.

"It was so incredible to see these parents, most of whom had never met, chatting, telling stories about their situations and laughing together," Ms Jones said. "More than a few of them have told me that this event provided one of the first times these parents had some quiet social time all to themselves in years."

The group also aligned with members of the high school's Best Buddies program to host a costume Halloween party, involving even more local teens with the cause. The remainder of the school year will continue to be busy for both Ms Jones and her growing network of junior and senior student assistants.

FUN is planning a February 5 gathering at Newtown United Methodist Church (NUMC) from 1:30 to 4 pm, during which all the attendees will help create valentines that will be packaged and sent off to US military members here and abroad. Their March 17 Irish Night at Newtown High School from 6 to 8 pm, will be highlighted by Irish music, food, and dancing.

A special activity is in the planning stages for April, which is Autism Awareness Month - and a second parent respite event, this time a spring afternoon luncheon, is set for May 7 at NUMC. The school year program culminates May 28 with a "Senior Send-Off" at the Dickinson Park pavilion, during which all graduating senior student volunteers are honored.

'70s Concert Planned

Besides annual participation in the Reed School Craft Fair, where FUN volunteers and Ms Jones sell jewelry to help defray program and event expenses, the group is also planning its next annual themed concert fundraiser for March 4, at 6 pm, at the Newtown Congregational Church. The event is boasting a '70s theme with food and music attendees will remember, or remember hearing about, from back in the 1970s.

These annual concerts have featured a mix of student, adult, and special youths providing entertainment in exchange for donations. Local merchants have been generous in providing food, refreshments, and items used for raffle and silent auction prizes.

"We are collecting raffle items from local businesses for the March 4 event now," Ms Jones said. "This is a wonderful way for local stores, restaurants, inns, and others to support our community and promote their services. We are especially seeking opportunities for our families that can give them a break from their daily challenges such as movie, concert, or sporting event passes, a dinner out, or a getaway weekend."

Tickets for adults are $20 in advance and $25 at the door; and $10 for students. This year for the first time, FUN is also offering residents a chance to purchase "Pay It Forward Tickets."

"If there are Newtowners that are unable to attend the event that would like to buy tickets for families with special needs children unable to afford the concert, they can purchase tickets and 'pay it forward' to a family of your choice," Ms Jones said.

Tickets are available online by visiting ; from Newtown National Honors Society Junior and Senior students; and at Butcher's Best Market, 125 South Main Street. Seats are limited, and the 2016 concert was completely sold out.familiesunitednewtown.org

Any families or parents with a special needs child or youth on the spectrum are invited to join FUN at any or all of its posted activities at no charge. Any local business or individual who wishes to either help the group through a donation, or by providing volunteer assistance, is encouraged to reach Ms Jones via e-mail at .lindajones9763@sbcglobal.net

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