LADACIN Plunge huge success despite the challenges of the day

LADACIN Network, a local nonprofit, proudly announces the success of their Annual Plunge, held on January 13th, marking the kickoff for their 75th Anniversary celebrations. Unfortunately, for the first time in 16 years, first responders prevented anyone from plunging due to emergency conditions from the storm.

Although the streets of Manasquan were flooded on the morning of the event, still hundreds of LADACIN supporters came out to Leggetts, some arriving by kayak, some rolling up their pants and wading through the water, and many dressed in creative costumes, showing their unwavering support of LADACIN, raising money to benefit individuals with disabilities.

Leggetts Sand Bar, Manasquan hosted the party and provided a delicious buffet lunch. Contributing to the festive spirit of the occasion, the Pipes and Drums of the Jersey Shore Shillelagh Belmar, traditionally leading the procession to the ocean, played their bagpipes at the party. WRAT 95.9 radio’s DJ Gotts entertained the party goers as the long-standing Emcee of the LADACIN Plunge.

The event supports LADACIN’s educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services for over 3,500 infants, children and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays living in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

Despite the days many challenges, this year’s event raised over $77,000. All proceeds from the event support the J. Michael Hartnett Memorial to benefit LADACIN Network. Since the Inaugural Plunge 16 years ago, the annual event has raised over 1.3 million dollars. Over the past several years, the proceeds have helped fund the vital programs and services provided to individuals with disabilities.

Joseph J. Russell, Jr., Esq., of Manasquan, Shareholder and Chair of the Family Law Department at Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer P. A., Eatontown, and Woodbridge, founded and continues to coordinate the event, along with his wife, Jeanette Russell, Esq. Joseph’s cousin, Elizabeth Hartnett, is a client of LADACIN Network, and has inspired his involvement in supporting the Agency. Elizabeth’s father, J. Michael Hartnett, was a long-time Agency Board member and advocate for people with disabilities.

As LADACIN Network commemorates its 75th years of service, they remain committed to their mission to provide a continuum of care, including educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services to infants, children and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays, including childcare and pre-school, early intervention, school programs, adult day programs, vocational training, supported employment, residential options, and respite programs. Today LADACIN serves over 3,500 individuals and families in 14 locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The Plunge’s success sets the tone for a series of celebratory events planned throughout the anniversary year, promising more opportunities to create a lasting impact on individuals with disabilities.

To learn more about LADACIN Network and their upcoming events, visit www.ladacin.org or email directorofdevelopment@ladacin.org