The Shops at Ithaca Mall, AbilityPath.org and The Noerr Programs host private photo sessions exclusively for families of children with special needs
The Shops at Ithaca Mall will welcome Santa Cares on Sunday, December 6 from 9am to 11am, allowing children with special needs to be welcomed into a photo environment designed to support their sensory, physical and developmental needs.
The event is a result of a joint partnership between AbilityPath.org, a national online resource hub and special needs community and The Noerr Programs, a leading marketing and digital imaging company providing the Santa and Bunny Photo Experience at malls nationwide.
“Every family of children with special needs has probably had at least one mall photo moment that was less than ideal. A traditionally heartwarming experience can become overwhelming and as a result, many special needs families opt not to partake in this tradition,” said Sheryl Young, CEO of AbilityPath.org. “With the help of The Shops at Ithaca Mall, we are changing that! We have worked together to lessen potential triggers, by having the event occur during private mall hours and making other slight adjustments that provide a calmer sensory-friendly environment for all children to enjoy.”
“We are thrilled to be the venue for this incredible event,” said Alyssa Nappa, Director of Marketing at The Shops at Ithaca Mall. “Santa Cares brings joy to children with specials needs in our community, and it is truly an honor to be involved in this program.”
“Santa Cares fulfills our dream of providing a comforting and physically accommodating experience for families with children that have special needs,” said Judy Noerr, chief executive officer of The Noerr Programs. “We appreciate the participation of The Shops at Ithaca Mall in expanding this program, allowing more families to share the magic and tradition of the holidays.”
The event kicks off at 9 a.m. and continues until 11 a.m. local standard times at The Shops at Ithaca Mall.
About The Shops at Ithaca Mall:
The Shops at Ithaca Mall is Ithaca’s premiere shopping center with over 70 shops, including stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Best Buy, Target, Old Navy, DSW, Ulta Beauty and Regal Cinemas, a stadium-seating theater. The Shops at Ithaca Mall is located at Catherwood Road Ithaca, NY. For more information go to www.theshopsatithacamall.com or call 607-257-5338.
