An estimated 65 people attended the first annual Special Needs Adult Pals, or SNAP, Talent Show at Am Shalom in Glencoe on Aug. 31.
“This is an amazing project and it fills my heart with great joy,” said Am Shalom Rabbi Steven Stark Lowenstein. “There’s a quote that says, ‘My house shall be a house of prayer,’ and programs like these enable us to fulfill our mission.”
The Wednesday evening showcase featured the talents of SNAP participants who meet on Tuesdays at Glencoe Youth Services. The Tuesday night three-hour events draw about 25 people weekly and include dinner.
The talent show was a fundraiser, with an entry fee and homemade baked goods for sale. An estimated $250 was raised to benefit SNAP programming.
“The community really does a lot for us,” said Corin Atwell of Highland Park and SNAP board president. “And this is an opportunity to give back to the community.”
The show featured poetry and singing. Some participants hesitated to appear on stage but did with encouragement.
“Some people have stage fright, so it’s (the talent show) a good way to deal with that,” said Dan Mehta, SNAP board vice-president.
Performers and audience members represented a range of North Shore communities, including Glencoe, Skokie, Park Ridge and Northbrook.
Edward Simon, GYS executive director, performed “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” television show soundtrack at the urging of audience members, donning sunglasses for his impromptu karaoke interpretation.
“It (the talent show) gives our participants a chance to show their talent and it gives the community a chance to get to know us,” he said.
Before the talent show, Simon talked about the benefits of SNAP.
“This program is the only free social outlet for adults with disabilities on the North Shore,” Simon said. “We’re really open to everyone.”
“Our community really cares about all of the people in it,” he said.
For more information about SNAP, visit http://www.glencoeyouthservices.org.
Karie Angell Luc is a freelance photographer and reporter for Pioneer Press.
