Better Community Living (BCL) is excited to announce its first-ever Poker Run! This “boat race” fundraiser will raise monies to support BCL’s Children’s Services which serve children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities throughout Southeastern, Massachusetts. The event is the 4th Annual Poker Run sponsored by Nopper Marine. Better Community Living is proud to have been selected as this year’s charitable beneficiary. Additional contributing sponsors include Earl’s Marina and Down the Hatch.

The event will take place on Saturday, September 9th with registration in the morning and the official ‘run’ starting at 12:00PM lasting through 5:00PM. Various stops for the boats will occur along the way. The race will be followed by dinner, live music, and awards at Down the Hatch at Earl’s Marina from 6:00-8:00PM. A full schedule, locations, and race route is below. The media are invited to attend any part of this event. Persons with boats are encouraged to register and participate. Organizers also recommend area residents to take in the sights by watching the race along its route.

BCL is a premier, not-for- profit human services agency dedicated to providing person-centered services to adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Greater New Bedford area. Programs include Bridges to Faith, Children’s Services, Day Habilitation, Individual Supports, Residential Living, Shared Living, and Supported Employment. The upcoming Poker Run will specifically support BCL Children’s Services, which provide support to individuals ages 3-22 and their families. The purpose of these programs is to maintain the family unit and avoid the out-of- home placement of a child. Programs emphasize positive behavioral supports for youth with unique needs to help them develop skills, reach their unique goals, and achieve their fullest potential. Diverse supports are provided directly by program staff, or via referrals to partner resources in the community. These help meet individuals’ needs in varying areas that include medical, social, educational, housing and transportation. Families also receive direct quality supports to help them navigate the daily responsibilities and requirements of caring for a child with a disability.