PITT'S TWENTIETH ANNUAL HAND-IN-HAND FESTIVAL TO HOST CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

PITTSBURGH, March 19 -- Clowns, fun, games and friendship are in store for more than 400 mentally and physically challenged children at the University of Pittsburgh's 20th annual Hand-in-Hand Festival on Saturday, March 21, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Forbes Quadrangle.

Since its inception in 1979, the festival has provided an opportunity for interaction between the collegiate community and the children of the special needs community.

The festival is designed to bridge the gap between people with disabilities and Pitt students. While providing a day of recreation for disabled children, the festival also helps to enrich the educational experience of student volunteers.

The unique community service event is organized and conducted entirely by Pitt students who have worked to create the festival atmosphere, plan the entertainment, recruit student organizations for game booths, and obtain funds, prizes and food. More than 400 students will be volunteering this year.

During the festival, persons with disabilities are paired with student volunteers who escort them throughout the day to all activities, including game booths, stage shows and visits with local mascots.

These "one-on-one" student volunteers receive training to help their special guests enjoy the festival.

For more information, call Denine Rocco at 648-1200.

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