Novato 2nd Annual Special Needs Safety Event at Pocket Park was a huge success

Posted on April 26, 2023

The Star Wars theme was embraced by all who visited our Matrix Booth!

“The Novato Special Needs Safety Event came to be as the inspiration of a local Novato mom, Katie Hughes, who wanted to build strong and meaningful relationships between the local police department and our disability community. Matrix Parent Network and Resource Center has been a proud participant of the event, since its inception, and the Star Wars theme brings such joy to all of our youth.”
~ Colleen Arnold, Matrix Parent Network and Resource Center Board President

This sensory friendly free event was held by the Novato Police Department and Novato Parks & Rec. It provided a chance for families to connect with Novato Police Department. Families were also able to learn about local organizations like Matrix Parent Network and Resource Center, who offer services to families who have children with special needs.
~ Hill Pashalides, Parent Advisor, Matrix Parent Network

Matrix booth at Novato Safety Fair Event — Matrix Parent Network and Resource Center Board President, Colleen Arnold was there along with Ana Acosta, Manager of Bilingual Parent Services, and Hill Pashalides, Parent Advisor. Many others showed up in full costume and a good time was had by all!

Everyone had a delightful time and yes…the force was with us! All of us at Matrix heartily agree with the media alert information that Lucasfilm shared:

“Having a focused event will give the disabled community of Novato the same opportunity to build a relationship with Novato Police officers and local first responders while fostering a stronger understanding of their unique safety needs by the first responders serving their community.

Building a relationship between these groups will help proactively keep people safe.”