CO-OP holiday party with The Order of Sons of Italy in America® Peter B. Gay Lodge #540

The Order of Sons of Italy in America® Peter B. Gay Lodge #540 hosted close to 100 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities from CO-OP for a holiday party. This is the tenth year of a Sons of Italy/CO-OP party and a highlight for many of CO-OP’s consumers. On December 17, everyone enjoyed a festive afternoon with a plentiful lunch, a reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Representative Shaunna O’Connell, live music, and even some mid-day dancing.

Local officials joined the festivities including Massachusetts representatives Patricia Haddad and Shauna O’Connell, District Representative Leslie Duclos from Congressman Joe Kennedy’s office, and Taunton Mayor Thomas Hoye. The Taunton High School Chorus, led by Director Steve Legarto, entertained the crowd with a lively holiday program.

According to CO-OP President William Corbett, “The Sons of Italy generously organizes this yearly tradition for the extended CO-OP family. Our folks look forward to this event each year and, once again, were not disappointed. It was a wonderful afternoon of celebration with friends.”

About CO-OP

CO-OP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supporting local citizens with developmental and other disabilities in a variety of residential and day programs, employment supports, and clinical services. Founded in 1972 and currently serving approximately 300 individuals and family members in Southeastern Massachusetts, CO-OP’s mission focuses on individualized services and community participation. For more information, go to www.co-op.cc.