Friends of Matheny to Host Iris Ball

The Friends of Matheny, a volunteer organization dedicated to the support of Matheny Medical and Educational Center, will honor Jim Entwistle of Tewksbury at its 25th anniversary Iris Ball, to be held Saturday, April 5 at the Bridgewater Marriott.

Entwistle, who is president of Village Office Supply in Somerset, attended a planning meeting recently with Nancy Hojnacki, left, of Bernardsville, a member of the Friends’ fundraising committee, and Lisa Novella of Peapack, co-chair of the Iris Ball.

Matheny is a special hospital and special education school for children and adults with medically complex developmental disabilities.  The Friends of Matheny have supported the programs and services offered by Matheny by funding the construction and furnishing of a special family dining room; outfitting the Matheny sports teams; purchasing wheelchair accessible vans, adaptive and therapeutic equipment and an interactive computer system; providing the funds for children and adults to attend special performances and events in the community; and purchasing “Rocky”, a therapy device that mimics the movements of a horse.  The Friends also operate the Second Chance Shop, located in the lower level of the United Methodist Church on Jackson Avenue in Gladstone.  Last year the Second Chance Shop raised more than $105,000 through the sale of gently used items.

For more information about the Iris Ball, please call 908-234-0011, ext. 282.