BANGOR, Maine — United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Maine hosted its 21st annual Pumpkins in the Park fundraising event Sunday, kicking off the Halloween season early and bringing people in the Bangor community together for a purpose.
Marketing and communications manager Andrew Lohman said the event helps UCP fund several programs that the nonprofit organization offers to support children and adults who have physical, intellectual, and mental health needs.
The event is one many community members said they wouldn't miss.
"It's become kind of a Bangor tradition," Lohman said. "To see the community out year after year to support us and help us raise a little bit of money at the same time is a great feeling."
Event organizers offered an hour-long sensory friendly experience for children and adults who have autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions that make them sensitive to sound and loud noise.
There was also a jack-o-lantern contest, and families got a chance to trick-or-treat and visit decked-out booths.
Community member Jerrick Fontaine and his family arrived in style, dressed up in astronaut costumes with a space theme.
"We decided that [my son] was really into space right now, and we thought it would be fun for us to go as a family and just to really enjoy it," Fontaine said. "And have fun together here—and help a good cause."
Lohman said the continuous support from the community year after year is overwhelming. But the event wouldn't be the same without it's thoughtful sponsors, who Lohman said he is grateful for.
Some 20 businesses and organizations sponsored the event this year including Northern Light Health and Husson University.
Grace Coffee, a member of the Brewer Kiwanis charity organization, said the nonprofit partnered with Brewer high school to promote literacy at the event and to support a good cause.
"Our organizations are both about giving back to the community," Coffee said. "So, being here—being able to see all of the children, partnering with UCP, that was really what did it for us."
Sarah Simpson, owner of Releve Dance Center, said UCP was there for her family when she needed them most, making becoming a sponsor a no-brainer.
"My personal children received services at UCP. So, it was a good way to give back to the community and give back to UCP," Simpson said. "It's definitely helped us, especially to receive mental health services."
As many look forward to next year, Danny Maher with Brewer Kiwanis said he sponsors with a purpose.
"It's been a lot of fun. It's a lot of work—but a lot of fun," Maher said. "Always remember your future is your young people."