By William Tauro

On Friday, the Walnut Street Center celebrated their annual holiday party for the 200 people they provide services to throughout the Somerville, Cambridge and Arlington communities.

The change of venue to Anthony’s, located at 156 Highland Avenue in Somerville, was a great hit, paired with the large dance floor and wonderful hospitality. It was non stop fun for all.

This event was made possible with the support of food donations by Shaws Supermarket and other Somerville Nonprofit organizations, Community Cooks.

Local Somerville Resident, George Landers also took time from work to donate his DJ services. He also has a nephew that attends the Walnut Street Center day program.

The party featured some of Walnut Street Center’s very own program participants, including Peter Hughes performing an Irish Step Dance as well as Ray Hardy, sporting a suit, tie and classic trilby hat, dancing to Frank Sinatra.

Through the amazing technology of electric wheelchairs, Stephen Dewar was able to pull his chair into a full standing position and join in the dancing on the same level as everyone else. At the close of the party everyone left with a holiday ornament and feeling the true holiday spirit.

Walnut Street Center, Inc. is a nonprofit, human service agency that provides comprehensive support services to adults who have developmental disabilities and their families. The agency was founded in 1970 by parents who wanted support for their children and other adults who had similar needs in their community. Walnut Street Center now provides services to people who live in the communities of Somerville, Cambridge and Arlington.

The Mission of the Walnut Street Center is to provide adults with developmental disabilities opportunities to live engaged and meaningful lives. The agency accomplishes this mission by offering a variety of support services that provide opportunities to live, work, volunteer and socialize in the community. The Walnut Street Center is currently developing and enhancing support services to meet the changing needs of the people who are served by this agency.

Walnut Street Center’s community-based services include day and employment training programs, residential and respite programs, social service and clinical support and specialized services including assisted living, Alzheimer’s and day habilitation programs. The goal of all of these services is to provide the resources and support that will enable the people we serve to live rewarding and productive lives in the community.