Transition Fair In Holmdel To Offer Special Needs Resources

HOLMDEL, NJ — The township and the school district are partnering to present a transition fair for students with intellectual and development disabilities who are becoming young adults.

Holmdel Mayor DJ Luccarelli and Holmdel Public Schools Superintendent Dr. J. Scott Cascone announced the event, which they say is a first for the township.

The fair, featuring 20 vendors with relevant services, will take place this Tuesday, March 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Bell Works Main Atrium.

Believed to be one of the first of its kind in Monmouth County, the fair will connect students and parents with resources as young people transition to independent adult living.

“We are fortunate to be part of a community that embraces diversity and inclusion,” said Holmdel School Director of Special Services Amanda Lamoglia. "Our very first transition fair will allow our students and families to connect with vendors connected to areas of importance to adult life, along with support resources.”

The fair will include organizations and agencies that provide support to those with intellectual and development disabilities as well as community groups that are working to develop local resources in the areas of independent living, recreation and higher education.

One of the presenters for the transition fair will be Luccarelli, who said of the event, “I am honored to be able to support the transition fair and I hope that we will be able to connect our students with the assistance they need to make the important transition to independent adult living.”

Cascone expressed the school district’s hope that this will be the first of many such events.

"We envision this to be an annual event and a valuable opportunity for our special needs students as they prepare for their momentous transition into independent adulthood," he said.

Luccarelli noted the event reflects "increased collaborative efforts between the township and the Holmdel school district."

He added, “I am confident that we will continue to find ways to support our students and provide them with the tools they need to be successful after graduation.”

Over 20 vendor organizations will be present at the fair, including employers, transportation services, health care agencies, and educational programs.

Students aged 14 to 21 and their parents are welcome and encouraged to participate.

The Atrium at Bell Works is located at 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, 07733.

For more information about the transition fair, visit the Holmdel Public Schools website at www.holmdelschools.org.