Coming off two well-attended and high profile events in recent weeks, Families United in Newtown (FUN), a locally-based nonprofit supporting special needs youths and those on the autism spectrum is holding its next meeting to showcase the artistic and culinary talents of participants and supporters.

The group is planning its "Paint-n-Pies" meeting Sunday, November 14, from 2-4 pm, at Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West Street. FUN invites community members who want to learn more, aspiring volunteers, and anyone whose children may be interested in participating, to join them for the event.

Founded by Linda and Duane Jones, FUN offers supervised social and recreational activities for young people with developmental disabilities as well as those on the autism spectrum, while helping to raise awareness about autism and funds to support autism research. The Joneses — parents to Lindsey, Austin, and Tyler — turned the tragedy of their son Tyler’s untimely passing in 2009 into a positive living memorial for their son to help bring special needs families together in a safe and welcoming place.

Anyone interested in participating in the pie jugding contest should plan to arrive with their pie when the event begins at 2 pm. The event's painting project will begin at that time, with the pie contest and judging commencing at 3 pm.

Anyone planning to attend is asked to contact Linda Jones at 203-512-6284 or lindajones9763@sbcglobal.net, or register through FUN's quick and easy online registration at https://bit.ly/3nDJ8jF.

Recent Events

In recent weeks, FUN participants enjoyed the opportunity to share the Newtown High School Blue & Gold Stadium field with members of the school soccer teams, who welcomed about a dozen local young people for some halftime kicking and passing drills, along with some one-on-one coaching, and a brief scrimmage before forming a high-five tunnel to bring the FUN members off the field.

Regular FUN attendees participating in the October 22 activities included Jessica Androetta, Kyle Corner, Jordan D’Amico, Kevin Gray, Ryan Hornick, Dasha Lipki, Phillip Padilla, Patrick Reisert, Amanda Rowan, Christopher Samson, and Christopher Simon. The soccer teams also helped sell baked treats, autism awareness vehicle stickers, and handmade Halloween masks.

Then on October 29, more than 100 people including over two dozen costumed youths attended the annual Halloween party and meeting, which was relocated from Dickinson Park to Newtown Congregational Church because of predicted bad weather. Those with costumes were invited to "walk the red carpet" to show off their creations.

Instead of the planned outdoor "trunk or treat," the creative volunteers from FUN pivoted to decorating a series of small classrooms at the church to dole out treats. The event was made possible thanks to a number of adult and family volunteers, along with huge support from NHS National Honor Society members, who support all the school-year FUN activities.

A pumpkin decorating contest was also held. The winning entries then went one at C.H. Booth Library.

At each FUN meeting, families are paired with an Honor Society student who spends time with guest youths, giving parents a much-needed break. All are welcome at FUN meetings.

The organization is also grateful for tax-deductible donations to help underwrite the expense of activities, which are all offered free to participants.

To volunteer or donate, or for more information, visit the Families United in Newtown Facebook page, or the organization's website, familiesunitedinnewtown.org.