A Slam Dunk for Disabilities!

Thank you to Jefferson Township High School for their continued support of our Department for Persons with Disabilities ministry.

Jefferson Township High School has had a collaborative relationship with the Department for 50 years, and is located across down the road from DPD’s Wiegand Farm.  Wiegand Farm is home to 3 DPD group homes, administrative offices and an activity center.  Over 300 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive support from DPD each day. 
 
JTHS have given back to DPD in many capacities including an annual food drive, an annual Carnival for Kids Fundraiser and hundreds of hours of volunteer service.  The   students of JTHS have always treated the individuals DPD serves with dignity and respect.   DPD has assisted JTHS’ Special Education Department and has also presented 2 annual scholarships for JTHS graduating seniors.
 
The 7 ^th Annual Dunk for Disabilities Event was held on January 10 ^th at the Jefferson Township High School Gym.  This game featured honorary DPD Captains, Cheerleaders, and All Stars including:
 
Captains Girls Game: Pam and Michele, Finnegan House
Captains Boys Game: Peter, from Finnegan House and Robert from Walsh House
Cheerleaders: Kaleigh and Susan of Werhlen House; Darlyn, Walsh House; Maryanne, Kelleher Apartments
DPD All Stars: Anthony, Walsh House; Richard, Columbus House;  John, Basile Apartments
Kathy, Murray House; Kelly, Wallace House

In addition, funds were raised through individual donations and the Progressive Shot Challenge raffle, sponsored by Portofino’s Restaurant, Oak Ridge and Milano’s Restaurant, Vernon.  4 people were chosen at random for their chance to win $10,000 by sinking a layup, freethrow, 3-pointer and half court shot.   This challenge was accomplished in 2018, but the 4 competitors fell short this year.  
 
The night’s festivities were capped by wins from both the JTHS Girls (27-26 over West Morris Mendham) and Boy’s (59-44 over Mountain Lakes) teams. 

“We would like to thank Dr. Timothy Plotts for his continued support of DPD in all we do.  We would also like to acknowledge Bill Koch, Michele Grieves and the entire athletic department at JTHS, including the Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball Teams for making this event happen.  This event would not have been possible without support from the local community, we are blessed to be part of Jefferson Township.  Finally, we would like to acknowledge Nicole Wildermuth, the Transition Coordinator at Jefferson High.   We are fortunate to be neighbors and have a collaborative relationship with JTHS.  We can’t wait for next year’s event,” said Joanna Miller, DPD Executive Director.