Vero Beach Elks Lodge #1774 held its annual Christmas event at the Wabasso School using $1,000 from its $2,000 Els National Foundation Gratitude Grant. The Wabasso School is a special education center school serving students ages 5 to 22. To meet the unique needs of the students, they offer four program models: intensive, integrated, behavioral and a transition program. The dedicated staff provides instruction that positively impacts student achievement; communication skills; and social, emotional and behavioral growth. Within a safe and supportive learning environment, children develop their academic and independent living skills to meet post-secondary goals and successful community integration. The money was used to purchase Christmas gifts requested by its 60 students. These gifts ranged from a coupon for McDonald’s to a guitar and were all well received. The students were happy to visit with Santa and show off their gifts. They were treated to cupcakes and juice provided by the Elks.
Pictured are Elks members Nancilee Wydra, the Grinch, PER Joe Palowich, Carol Palowich, Santa, Secretary Kathi Lee Miller, ER Jack McClurken and PER Jim Rannazzisi. The Grinch and Santa are Wabasso school teachers, Gene Hanley and Peter Matson.