How It All Started
As parents of children with special abilities
Raising our children has been an experience of wonderful surprise and joy as well as deep learning. There have also been moments of desperation as we struggle to find a place where our children belong.
In addition to their education, we as parents believe that our exceptional kids needed a place to build and grow relationships in a safe place. And so an idea was born out of the search for inclusion. We shared our idea with other parents and friends, encountering overwhelming support and encouragement. The idea became a reality and we call it Friday Night Out.
Since 2016, we have enjoyed watching our Friday Night Out community grow! Not only do our participants have the opportunity to be themselves in a safe space online, but each month they also meet new friends in person and continue to grow their social network.
This is our vision for Friday Night Out.
Welcome!
Noralyn Giles & Dawnie Rocca & Megan Portoni
Read an article about us in Alamo Today, Danville Today , July 2019, click here.
Signed by, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, U.S. House of Representatives
June 2022 - Friday Night Out won the Roz Wolfsy Advocacy Award from the Developmental Disabilities Council of Contra Costa and Alameda County!
In Recognition of Outstanding and Invaluable Service to the Community
Meet the Board
Chair: Noralyn Giles
Vice Chair, Outreach: Scott Giles
Vice Chair, Marketing: Dawnie Rocca
Vice Chair, Secretary: Dr. Lisa McClun
Vice Chair, Treasurer: Megan Portoni
Advisors: Rachel Schreiber and Sam Cohen
Mascot: “Foxy” Sam’s dog