The Arc Lexington celebrates National Developmental Disabilities Month with Rock for Abilities Concert, art contest

Events designed to raise awareness about inclusivity and equality for people of all abilities

GLOVERSVILLE, NY – In honor of National Developmental Disabilities Month, The Arc Lexington is holding an art contest for local students throughout Fulton County in addition to a concert by internationally-renowned band Flame. The events celebrate the many accomplishments and contributions of men and women with varying abilities while also raising awareness about the importance of equality in society throughout the month.

National Developmental Disabilities Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD), advocate for their rights and promote understanding and inclusivity within society. Students at Fulton County elementary, middle and high schools are encouraged to celebrate with The Arc Lexington by submitting artwork or an essay that celebrates equality and differing abilities with a focus on this year’s contest theme, “Developmental Disabilities Awareness: Building a Community for All!”

Submission entries are due by Friday, March 15 and should be sent to the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts, 2736 State Highway 30, Gloversville, NY 12078.  Top winners chosen from each age group will receive two free tickets to the Rock for Abilities Concert on March 28, where they will be publicly recognized and get the opportunity to meet the members of Flame. In addition, the school with the most entries will win a free Flame concert.

Flame will perform its Rock for Abilities Concert at Lexington’s Gloversville facility, 127 East State Street, from 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 each.  Audience members are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to exchange for the chance to win a door prize. All food donations will benefit local food pantries.

For information about Flame, or for questions about the art contest, contact Maria Nestle, at (518) 661-9932 or nestlem@thearclexington.org.