The next Families United in Newtown (FUN) meeting is set for Saturday, March 9, and will have a St Patty’s Day theme.

The meeting, which is open to all local young people and families with a child on the autism spectrum or with a developmental or other disability, is set for 5 to 7 pm that day in the cafetorium of Newtown High School, 12 Berkshire Road.

Families United in Newtown (FUN) founder Linda Jones established FUN in 2010 in memory of her late son, Tyler, to help bring the community of special needs families together in a safe and welcoming place.

At each FUN meeting, families are paired with a National Honors Society student from Newtown High School who will spend time with the kids, giving the parents a much-needed break.

Participants are encouraged to wear green or any other St Patty’s Day accessories and to arrive promptly at 5 for card-making, crafts, and photos at the selfie-station. At 5:30, Craig Ashurst from the Ashurst Academy of Irish Dance will lead a brief performance before teaching attendees a few Irish dance moves.

Pizza and dessert will then be served, and DJ dancing will continue from 6 to 7 pm.

Planning to attend? RSVP Linda Jones at 203-512-6284 or by e-mail at lindajones9763@sbcglobal.net to be sure there is enough food prepared.

To learn more about attending or supporting FUN, visit the organization’s Facebook page or on the group's website.