'Jonathan's Day' Connects Kids With Autism At Unique Abilities Fair
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PALMETTO BAY (CBSMiami) -- The second annual "Jonathan's Day" kicked off the first weekend of December with a day of fun and adventure, all while providing support and assistance to kids and families dealing with autism.
CBS4 is a proud sponsor of Saturday's event, part of Palmetto Bay's Unique Abilities Fair, held at Coral Reef Park in conjunction with the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University's "Center for Autism and Related Disabilities."
Their mission -- to help families of children diagnosed with the disorder.
"We came here to learn, for awareness, to learn a little bit more about kids under the (autism) spectrum, to see what activities, what events, to see what else is out there for kids," said Haydee Escobar, a mother whose daughter was diagnosed with autism at 18 months old.
"Jonathan's Day" is named after Jonathan Mizrachi, a bright-eyed 12-year-old with autism. He's the son of CBS4 Digital Sales Manager, Jason Mizrachi.
Like most boys his age, Jonathan loves adventure and his 'no fear' attitude has made him an exceptional child.
"It's a special day for kids that have autism," said Jonathan, with his face painted like a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.
His mother, Melinda Mizarachi, is a board member with UM-NSU CARD, a non-profit organization providing direct services to thousands of South Florida families affected by autism.
"It's not just about a day having my son's name," she said. "It's about seeing all these special kids coming out here and making new friends, and just having fun and being themselves, where they're not being made fun of or being bullied."
CBS4 Sports Anchor Mike Cugno served as co-MC of the event along with Miami Heat announcer Michael Baiamonte.
"Jonathan's Day is an exciting day," said Baiamonte. "We got plenty of kids out here enjoying everything. I'm here at the basketball booth announcing the kids like they're NBA stars, making them really feel like they're special, because they really are to us."
Activities included music, food trucks, ability demonstrations, a sports photo gallery, an art in the park project, among much more.
Last year's event was held at Everglades Holiday Park.
