The Hormel Historic Home and Arc Mower County will soon be working together to raise funds for and awareness about the services we provide to area residents living with special needs, including autism.

On Sunday, Oct. 2, our organizations will host the Dad’s Belgian Waffle fundraiser at the Austin Eagles from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. that will benefit both groups.

As you may know, Arc of Mower County has been providing services in our area since 1952. Through the efforts of parents of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the project was started to enhance the lives of their children in the areas of special education, vocational training and recreation.

Their small staff organizes activities such as bowling, cooking instruction, movie nights and Special Olympics. They are driven by passion, dedication, and a willingness to improve the lives of those with special needs. For seven years now, the Hormel Historic Home has offered an educational and recreational environment during the summer for young people on the autism spectrum.

Our ASD leadership team has worked hard to develop programming that is affordable, meaningful and measurable. The work that has been done with our participants has prepared them to be better able to take advantage of other programming such as what Arc offers.

Our programs complement one another, and that is why we are eager to collaborate. The more positive programming for those with special needs that is available in Austin the more sensitive and inclusive our community can become.

Tickets for the Waffle Feed are available at the Hormel Historic Home or at the Arc Mower County Office for $8 per adult and $5 for children (6-12).  They can also be purchased the day of the event for $9 per adult and $6 per child (6-12). Children 5 and under are free. Thank you in advance for supporting this event.

Speaking of food. The Hormel Historic Home Hearth & Home series will continue in October.

The first session will be at 10 a.m. on Oct. 18.  Spambassadors will be presenting the history of Spam and will share fun and creative ways to serve it.

On Nov. 15, Hy-Vee’s Chef Kristine will present ideas for crockpot cooking and innovative ways to use leftovers.

These events are free and open to the public. Reservations are requested but not required. Who doesn’t like food?

Plan to join us for waffles on Oct. 2, Spam on Oct. 18 and crockpot favorites on Nov. 15.

 History Happy Hour

5:30 p.m. social, 6 p.m. program, Oct. 10

Stories of Orphan Train Riders, presented by author, Dorothy Lund Nelson

Free for members of the HHH, Mower County Historical Society and the Friends of the Library.  $5 for non-members