HPU Students Co-Host Special Populations Halloween Event
Pictured from left as they handed out treats are fifth-year graduate students in the master’s in education program in special education, Anna Drummond, Claire Cassel and Sydney Horn, as well as Angie Davis, a junior accounting major with a minor in education.
HIGH POINT, N.C., Oct. 28, 2024 – High Point University students collaborated with High Point Parks and Recreation’s ASPIRE (Adaptive Sports, Programs and Inclusive Recreation) program to co-host a Special Populations Halloween Dance and Trunk or Treat on Oct. 22 at the Miracle League of High Point Field.
Each year, HPU’s student chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) works with ASPIRE to organize the event for community members with intellectual or physical disabilities to dress up in costumes, dance and enjoy games, crafts and food in Halloween-themed areas.
Nearly 150 people participated in this year’s Special Pops Halloween Dance and Trunk or Treat, said Julia Ravega, a sophomore psychology major from Los Angeles, California, who serves as co-president of HPU’s CEC. She described it as a wonderful time to be a part of the community of High Point.
“There are many reasons why the CEC co-hosting this event is important, but the one that sticks out to me the most is the lessons that come with working with this community,” Ravega said. “Learning leadership skills, interpersonal skills, and even some crafting skills if you work the craft table at these events, are all great reasons why this dance is important. It is so amazing to see people happy and thriving in any stage of life, and CEC offers great opportunities to students at High Point University to connect with the extraordinary people of High Point and make a fun day even better. These dances are a great way to serve and celebrate.”
The annual Halloween dance is a way for HPU students to connect with, develop friendships and support individuals in the High Point community. The CEC consists of majors from across campus with a common interest in promoting awareness and providing support for individuals with disabilities. The student organization has hosted this event and others like it for more than 18 years. Participation in the dances is a tradition for HPU students majoring and minoring in special education and other students who have an interest in serving the community.
The CEC will host two more dances for individuals with disabilities this winter. The Christmas and Valentine’s Day dances will include similar activities for the community to enjoy.
“This partnership is good for our families because it brings in that inclusive piece for our families,” said Stephanie Hedgecock, ASPIRE program coordinator. “Our participants absolutely love interacting with the HPU students at our dances.”