What: Saint Joseph's Michael J. Hagan ’85 Arena will be transformed into a carnival as University volunteers host community members with disabilities in the 34th annual Hand-in-Hand festival.

Sponsor: This is a student-organized event. This year’s co-directors are seniors Jim Prieto, Erica Pieroni and Caitlin Walsh. Hand-in-Hand volunteers include Saint Joseph's students, faculty, and staff, as well as local high school students.

When: Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: Saint Joseph’s University Michael J. Hagan ’85 Arena Parking Entrance on 54th Street off of City Avenue

Highlight: Hand-in-Hand volunteers will accompany guests to various carnival-themed booths throughout the Hagan arena. From face painting and dancing to live music and magic to simple games of chance, each visitor is treated to a special day of fun and memories.

About: The mission of Hand-in-Hand is to spread awareness, increase interaction and create unity among the community and those with special needs. The organization was recently recognized with the University’s Love in Action award which applauds the efforts of a student organization which, through service to others, best uses the Jesuit ideals to reach beyond the walls of Saint Joseph's University, and whose work impacts the world at large and benefits people outside of the SJU campus. Hand-in-Hand has also been honored by the Montgomery County Association for Retarded Citizens and the Elwyn Institute. Hand-in-Hand is the model for similar festivals at 10 other colleges and universities, including the University of Scranton, Johns Hopkins University and Georgetown University.