The Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County welcomed its adult participants for a day of creativity and animal interaction, featuring a petting zoo and an annual art exhibit showcasing the talents of adults in its day programs.

The outdoor petting zoo, funded by New York Elks Lodge #1 in Lynbrook, gave approximately 200 participants in CP Nassau's Adult Day Program the opportunity to interact with animals including rabbits, chickens, ducks, sheep and a baby goat. Organizers said the experience was designed to provide a unique and engaging activity for individuals who may not otherwise have access to such experiences.

“This is a very exciting day,” said Sharon Rothstein, CP Nassau's director of adult day services. “In our day programs, our mission is to integrate into the community, but also to provide new and exciting experiences that our guys don't necessarily have the opportunity to experience on a daily basis.”

Rothstein said participants were able to pet, feed and walk some of the animals, creating memorable moments while encouraging engagement and social interaction.

The event was sponsored by the Elks, which has supported cerebral palsy programs across New York state for decades through fundraising and grant initiatives.

“With that grant money that we get, we use it to provide services like this,” said Brian Steckler, exalted ruler of New York Elks Lodge #1. “I'm so glad they could have this type of engagement with animals. It gives them stimulation, and it's just really wonderful.”

Inside the agency's auditorium, participants displayed nearly 200 pieces of artwork created throughout the year under the guidance of art therapist Samantha Hasher. The exhibit featured paintings, drawings, photography, clay works and mixed-media projects. Hasher said the program encourages participants to express themselves through a wide range of artistic mediums.

“When I see all these pieces of art, I think about all their abilities,” Hasher said. “You don't think about disabilities. You think about what these guys can do.”

Participants expressed pride in sharing their work.

"I like art and I like different colors," said Jonathan H. "What inspired me also is when I do a rainbow, it inspired me to do this."

"It's wonderful to see different art from different artists," added Patty V.

For CP Nassau, the petting zoo and art exhibit reflected the organization's ongoing goal of creating meaningful experiences and opportunities for self-expression for adults with developmental disabilities.