06 Mar 2021 Let the good times roll
By Stefanie Brazile
Like a proud, protective mom, Sarah Murphy, superintendent of the Conway Human Development Center (CHDC), describes her place of work as a “hidden treasure” that serves disabled children and adults. Each year, their Volunteer Council raises money to buy each of the 460 residents a $30 Christmas gift.
The 26th annual Bowl-A-Thon is planned for 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, March 5, at Conway Family Bowl and is organized by the CHDC Volunteer Council. Because of COVID-19 precautions, residents who typically participate will enjoy bowling activities on campus, but the public is invited to wear a mask and come out and knock down some pins in person. Another way to help is by making a donation.
“We appreciate the members of the Volunteer Council,” Murphy said. “They work hard throughout the year. It takes $16,000 to buy each person a $30 Christmas gift.” Murphy is amazed at what they have accomplished over the years, including building an Olympic size pool in the past.
While the state pays for housing and medical needs for residents with disabilities, the Volunteer Council was established in the 1980s to support other needs that the state cannot provide. There is a 1960s model train on campus that allows them to do a Polar Express-style Christmas.
“We love what our residents love and we go all out with our experiences,” Murphy said. “We’re huge with Special Olympics and the torch run comes through the campus every year.”
CHDC was founded in 1959 and employs about 900 people, many of them physicians, nurses and other allied health care workers. The huge campus has 32 houses where people are divided by age, gender and needs into separate homes. “We want them to grow and develop with a peer group similar to them,” the 20 year veteran said.
About 50 children live on campus, along with approximately 410 adults, ages 16 and older. Some individuals only need medication management, while others require more intensive care.
“Like everyone else in the world, we had the most difficult year last year,” Murphy said. “We lost our first resident [because of the virus] in late January and it was completely horrible.
“We have the most dedicated, wonderful staff that comes to work no matter what.”
LaQuetta Garlington-Seals is the volunteer services coordinator and her enthusiasm for the annual Bowl-A-Thon is contagious. She knows it will take a lot of effort to raise the money needed to bring smiles to the family at CHDC next December.
The event is open to the public. A person may come by the event and make a donation as well.
To join in the Let the Good Times Roll fun with a team of four, call Garlington-Seals at 501.329.6851, ext. 319. The cost is $50 per person or $200 per team. Checks can be mailed to: CHDC Volunteer Council, 150 E. Siebenmorgen Road, Conway, AR 72032.
