One thing lacking in Schuylkill County is the availability of events that are designed for those with special needs. There is also a lack of venues that offer all inclusive areas and activities. In the near future, a local group called Dustin’s Adventureland, a pending 501c3 non profit organization, hopes to eliminate those barriers.
In 2018, Amy Freed of Pottsville, came up with the vision for a Special Needs Egg Hunt, which would be designed and organized specifically for those with all types of Special Needs. In April of 2019, the group held the First Annual “Dustin’s Special Egg Hunt", named after her son, Dustin who is autistic.
With the help of many local businesses and sponsors, the event was a huge success and over 100 children with special needs attended the event. All attendees received gifts and refreshments. There were plenty of events for them to take part in and over a dozen characters to interact and get pictures with. It was a great event and we are now in the planning stages of the 2nd Annual Dustin’s Special Egg Hunt which will take place on April 4th, 2020 at Miller Playground in Port Carbon Borough. Registration will take place starting Feb 1st, 2020 through our Facebook Page, Dustin’s Adventureland or though the event page by searching “2nd Annual Dustin’s Special Egg Hunt”.
The only way they can continue to hold these events and raise money for future plans is by holding fundraisers. February 29th, 2020 they will be hosting our “Leap Year Luau" featuring some of the areas best musicians such as Boys Upstairs, Merely Players, Nick Michels, Big Ger and Rhythm and Brews. The fun will start at 6pm at the Amvets Post 180 at 1300 Seneca St in Pottsville. Tickets are available online at myevent.com/leapyearluau. Only 150 tickets will be sold and an option for buffet is available. They would like to thank all of the musicians and to the Amvets Post 180 for their help in making this a success. They are certain “ There is no better way to spend your extra day".
They will be holding several fundraising events throughout the year as well including our 3rd Annual Auction which will be held on October 12th and 13th at the Amvets Post 180 in Pottsville. A Car Cruise, Winefest, Cornhole Tournament and other events are in the works as well.
If anyone would like more info on the Organization or would like to assist with fundraising events, please reach out to us. They have very big plans in the near future and would welcome committee members.
Dustin’s Adventureland
dustinsadventureland@gmail.com
P.O. Box 132
Pottsville PA 17901
President James Womer - 570-640-4771
V.P. Jeffrey Dunkel - 570-527-6040