(SUMMIT, NJ) -- The Elks Lodge of Summit recently donated $2,000 to the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey to support the work VACNJ is doing with ECLC (Education, Careers & Lifelong Community) of New Jersey. The gift will help fund the Art Center’s work with ECLC’s PRIDE program that assists adults with developmental disabilities make choices for the next steps in their lives. These programs focus on activities that help in one of four areas: social appropriateness, independent living, work enhancement skills, and community participation. VACNJ works with two of the ECLC PRIDE groups each week. Led by art therapist Megan Tuttle, these groups create art to promote social and emotional well-being.

"We are delighted to support the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey and their educational program for adults with special needs. These dedicated programs are a top priority of the Summit Elks Lodge," said Ted Scallon, Chair Special Children’s Committee, Summit Elks Lodge.

For more than 150 years, the Elks have worked towards their mission of inculcating the principles of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. They have done so by supporting numerous charitable causes, providing scholarships to students in need, offering a local meeting place for the community, and serving as a place for like-minded individuals to meet and socialize in a relaxed setting.  

For over 85 years, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey has been exclusively dedicated to viewing, making, and learning about contemporary art. Recognized as a leading non-profit arts organization, the Art Center’s renowned Studio School, acclaimed exhibitions, and educational outreach initiatives serve thousands of youth, families, seniors, and people with special needs every year. The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is located at 68 Elm Street in Summit, NJ. Gallery hours: Monday– Thursday, 10:00am - 8:00pm; Friday, 10:00am - 5:00pm; and Saturday & Sunday, 11:00am - 4:00pm. Admission must be reserved in advance. Please call 908.273.9121 to confirm holiday hours. Major support for the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is provided in part by the Peter R. & Cynthia K. Kellogg Foundation; the Wilf Family Foundations; and Art Center members and donors.

PHOTO: Pictured from left to right: Diego Rotsztain, VACNJ Board of Trustees Vice Chair; Sarah Walko, VACNJ Director of Education & Community Engagement; Theresa Scallon; and Ted Scallon, Chair Special Children’s Committee, Summit Elks Lodge