The Explore Schuylkill Special Needs Egg Hunt is set to take place on April 19, 2025, at the Minersville Lions Pavilion.
Families with special needs children in Schuylkill County are encouraged to register before March 17. Details can be found on Dustin's Adventureland Facebook page.
Designed specifically for children with special needs aged 0-16, this annual event (paused only during COVID) continues to fill a vital need for inclusive activities in the community. The event will provide a variety of ability and age-level opportunities, ensuring every child can participate to the best of their abilities. Each registered child will also receive a commemorative shirt marking the 4th Special Needs Egg Hunt.
In partnership with Explore Schuylkill, the event will include hundreds of filled eggs, along with food and drinks for registered children.
Registration is only available for children with special needs. Eligibility is based on criteria such as having an IFSP or IEP, or receiving a diagnosis from a doctor for conditions like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, vision impairment, hearing impairment, or physical impairments.
To register, visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc035AeQKqZAl6Hi2tmA0VD_idVbC8Rj0GgEqPNr4UoIguJzw/viewform
Amy Freed, mother of Dustin and Co-Chair of the Egg Hunt, expressed her excitement about the event's growth: "I'm excited that the numbers are already more than last year and I'm happy to see these numbers grow annually."
Tonya Hoppel, Board Secretary and event Co-Chair, shared her thoughts: "Dustin's Adventureland is always excited to bring this opportunity to our local special needs children. We know our families appreciate events like this, allowing their kids to participate with accommodations other events aren't always able to provide. Their smiles are all the reward we need."
Jeffrey Dunkel, President of Dustin's Adventureland, reflected on the organization's growth: "This event is what started it all for Dustin's Adventureland. A small event six years ago turned into a $510,000 playground and a broader mission to improve accessibility across Schuylkill County. We're excited to begin efforts this year in Palo Alto. Our Egg Hunt, along with our Fishing Rodeo and Christmas event, are all dedicated to children with special needs, who are often overlooked. Seeing the impact Dustin's Adventureland has made on so many lives is simply amazing. We owe it all to our incredible sponsors, supporters, and volunteers — it truly takes a village."
Dustin's Adventureland Board extends its gratitude to Explore Schuylkill, Aarons Sales and Lease, Minersville Lions, Minersville Borough, and all of the dedicated shirt sponsors.