17th Annual Holiday Formal: Record Attendance & Inclusive Celebration

Event for adults with developmental disabilities sees record attendence

Holiday Formal attendee and Direct Support Professional dancing togetherPhoto byIn Flight, Inc.

POUGHKEEPSIE, NEW YORK - In Flight, Inc., a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, hosted its highly anticipated 17th Annual Holiday Formal at the Grandview. The event, held on December 17, saw an overwhelming response with over 500 tickets purchased.

The Annual Holiday Formal was created as a positive opportunity to offer the community of local people with disabilities, their family, and their staff/provider agencies a chance to come together and celebrate in an inclusive and accessible space. People with disabilities are often not invited or cannot attend large events like the Holiday Formal. This is due to various barriers such as accessibility, transportation, staffing, and many more.

People from six different local residential agencies, along with community members and those living at home with family, came together to partake in the festivities. The event saw a heartwarming mix of familiar faces who have been a part of every Holiday Formal since its start, as well as newcomers from state-run houses and the local community.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by rising costs, event sponsors played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the Holiday Formal. This would not have been possible without our generous community members- KeyBank, Bob's Discount Furniture, Rhinebeck Bank, Salisbury Bank, and Paraco Gas. Their support not only covered the DJ expenses but also allowed the organization to maintain affordable ticket prices for attendees. Looking ahead to 2024, the organizers anticipate a modest increase in ticket prices to offset growing costs.

Party goers enjoying the DJ services provided by Donnie Lewis of Your Event MattersPhoto byIn Flight, Inc.

The Grandview went above and beyond to accommodate the expanding event. As a delightful surprise, an additional dance floor was added to cater to the group's love for dancing. The outstanding DJ services provided by Donnie Lewis of Your Event Matters created an atmosphere that was further enhanced by the spontaneous conga lines that circled the room, showcasing the infectious joy of the occasion.

17th Annual Holiday Formal attendees dancing the night awayPhoto byIn Flight, Inc.

Reflecting on the evening, Jennifer Wells, Director of Day and Community Services at In Flight, Inc., shared, "The magic of the Holiday Formal returned for 2023. The atmosphere was filled with music, smiles, laughter, and friendship. 'Dressed to impress' did not disappoint, and the joy across the room brought the true spirit of the holidays to everyone who attended."

(Left to Right) Jennifer Wells, Linda Spiciarich, Stephanie Davis, Carrie Williams, and Sarah Green – In Flight, Inc. staff.Photo byIn Flight, Inc.

In Flight, Inc. expresses gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and the Grandview for making the 17th Annual Holiday Formal an unforgettable celebration of inclusion and community spirit. A special thank you to the core group of dedicated volunteers, including Carrie Williams, Sarah Green, Stephanie Davis, Linda Spiciarich, and Amma Lee Wells, played a pivotal role in ensuring the event's seamless execution.

Save the date for the 2024 Holiday Formal, scheduled for December 8th, from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. To learn more about how you can participate in 2024’s Holiday Formal including sponsorships and volunteer opportunities, please contact Jill Rodriquez, jrodriquez@inflightinc.org. Tickets will go on sale late summer/early fall of 2024.

In Flight, Inc. LogoPhoto byIn Flight, Inc.

About In Flight, Inc.

In Flight, Inc. is a local nonprofit organization that empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reach for their hopes and dreams, and support a meaningful quality of life. The organization has programming and services in Dutchess, Columbia, Greene, and Ulster Counties. For more information about In Flight, Inc, please contact Jill Rodriquez at (845) 835-6294 x190 or jrodriquez@inflightinc.org.