Lighthouse Vocational Services has set aside a day to recognize the importance of families. But in reality, the local nonprofit celebrates families - both immediate and extended - every day.

"Families are very supportive of the participants of Lighthouse Vocational Services," said Mark Slider, director of development for Lighthouse Vocational Services. "As parents, we all support our children throughout their lives and into adulthood. For the participants of Lighthouse Vocational Services, these needs and the subsequent support toward gaining independence are even more necessary. The families come together as a community and celebrate the day through activities, food and fun."

Lighthouse Vocational Services, a Christian-based organization which advocates for and promotes growth and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, will conduct this year's edition of its annual Family Day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, at its headquarters, 144 Orlan Road, New Holland. The event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome.

"Family Day is important because we raise resources for those who are served by Lighthouse Vocational Services," said Slider. "While raising resources, we are also raising awareness of the variety of services we offer for families, especially those impacted by autism, mental health issues, as well as those impacted by a variety of intellectual and developmental challenges."

Highlighting Family Day will be a flower sale featuring shrubs, plants and gardening equipment; a variety of food trucks; and a number of local musical groups, including the New Holland Band. The event will also offer face painting, miniature golf, ice cream and bubbles.

"We create a family-friendly event in order to serve the community, have fun and raise money," said Slider.

Officials of Lighthouse Vocational Services are hoping to raise $25,000 through Family Day.

"We promote growth, opportunity and hope for persons with disabilities based on Christian values and principles," said Slider. "For the past 51 years, we have served people in the Amish, Mennonite and Plain communities. Often, folks from these communities do not accept government funding. We raise funds to subsidize the costs for these folks so they can receive the services they deserve while being trained to be great employees for businesses in Lancaster County and beyond."

Currently, Lighthouse Vocational Services is serving more than 230 program participants. The local nonprofit also partners with more than 40 similar altruistic organizations and more than 200 civic-minded businesses.

Founded by Norman Hahn, Melvin Martin, John Sensenig and Ben Weaver as Lighthouse Rehabilitation Center, the organization first served three participants in a farmhouse in Blue Ball in 1975. In 2000, Lighthouse Vocational Services moved its operations to an industrial park on Orlan Road.

Today, Lighthouse Vocational Services, which is overseen by an 11-member board of directors, provides programs in skills training, virtual training, employment services, student transition and community outreach.

For additional information, go to https://lighthousevoc.org.