Pumpkin Days returns to benefit community-based program for disabled children

The president of a community-based child disability program is urging parents to mark their calendars for the return of an annual fall-themed event later this month.

The Pahrump Disability Outreach Program Pumpkin Days return to Ian Deutch Memorial Park beginning at 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21.

On Saturday, the event runs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The fall-themed event is designed to allow families of children with developmental disabilities, to enjoy three days in the park, complete with numerous activities.

Founder and President David Boruchowitz said the event will include one additional attraction for the first time this year.

“It’s a great event for families and this year we have added tethered hot-air balloon rides,” he said. “We will also be expanding the haunted house, doubling it in size. All of our customary attractions like the pumpkin train, the hay maze, and hay pyramid will be at the park as well as all of the wonderful food. We also have the petting zoo coming back as well as pony rides.”

One attraction, Boruchowitz said, is a perennial favorite among attendees.

“The haunted house attraction is both scary and fun,” he said. “It is geared toward the older kids, but most years the younger kids go through it and are fine with it, especially with parental supervision. It’s just one of the attractions to provide the older kids with the little bit of an extra kick to give to their age group.”

Additionally, the 5K Monster Dash run will kick off Saturday’s activities at 8 a.m., followed by a children’s costume parade at 4 p.m.

Single-day admission to Pumpkin Days is a $5 donation per person.

Weekend admission is $10 per person, which includes the tethered hot-air balloon rides.

Boruchowitz, a sergeant with the Nye County Sheriff’s Office, founded the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program to support parents of children with disabilities after his son was diagnosed with a genetic disorder.

He said he is pleased there is a place for parents to gain knowledge without feeling the stigma often attached to a person with disabilities.

At present, the program has roughly 50 families who regularly attend monthly social groups and meetings with a focus on training and education.

“We created our nonprofit to provide a resource to other families in the community,” Boruchowitz said.

For additional information on Pumpkin Days and the overall program, call 702-516-0847, or log on to www.pdop.info.

Contact reporter Selwyn Harris at sharris@pvtimes.com.

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