BARNEGAT – Meadowedge Social Club members, a group of adults with disabilities, savored the fruits of their labor at a recent farm-to-table dinner that proved to be more than just a meal. The occasion cultivated a sense of purpose and fellowship as well.
In the Meadowedge Friendship Garden, participants in the program devoted themselves to the tender care of a variety of vegetables. They planted and harvested an array of produce, including squash, onions, green beans, cucumbers, two varieties of tomatoes, and sweet and spicy peppers. Aromatic herbs like basil, cilantro, and dill also had their own dedicated space in the garden.
Long tables were set with noteworthy centerpieces – beautifully jarred pickles lovingly crafted from the fruitful cucumber harvest. The homemade pickles added a touch of charm to the event, showcasing not only the garden’s abundance but also the heartfelt dedication of the Meadowedge Social Club members.
The menu featured an array of delights, starting with chips and salsa crafted from handpicked tomatoes, fragrant onions, piquant garlic, and fresh cilantro. A cold bean salad with crisp garden-fresh green beans and fragrant parsley added a refreshing touch to the cheese quesadillas. And to sweeten the experience, delectable desserts were served as well.
Jennifer Ferrara, 32, a Barnegat High School graduate, had tongs in hand as she proceeded to help serve friends and guests who came up for food.
Gabrielle Emanueli holds up the painting she did that became part of the Meadowedge Farm to Table invitation. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
“I text with my teacher there (at Barnegat High School),” said Ferrara. “I’ve been coming here a long time.”
According to Jennifer’s mom, who was also at the event, two of her other daughters have volunteered at Meadowedge and loved it. Jennifer worked for the Compassion Café during the summer months and demonstrated how well her food service skills have paid off.
While her friends sat and enjoyed the ambiance of a crackling firepit, Gabrielle Emanueli couldn’t have been more pleased that she’d been selected to act as a guide to an outside guest. Nearly 30 years old, Emanueli credited the Meadowedge Social Club with making a difference in her life.
“I actually heard about this program from the ARC, where I go during the day,” said Emanueli. “It was 2019 before COVID, and I was kind of nervous before. I get shy around people, and this got me out of my comfort zone.”
As Emanueli took the lead walking inside the building within Meadowedge Park, she approached each room with the affectionate enthusiasm of someone unveiling the cherished corners of her own home. With a thoughtful note of caution, Emanueli first stopped at the kitchen and pointed to the sink.
“We don’t drink the water here,” Emanueli warned. “There’s something wrong with it.”
Myles Levy (in black and red) is the most senior member of the Meadowedge Social Club and often referred to as the club’s mayor. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
The young woman’s radiant smile lit up as she moved through the rooms, offering a glimpse into the club’s regular activities. She described lively bingo games and the beach trips they enjoyed together.
Donning a large sombrero with flair, Emanueli proudly showcased a painting she had crafted – a masterpiece that ultimately became the artwork on the farm-to-table invitation. She spoke of arts and crafts activities and putting together puzzles to get to know her other friends.
Outside, Myles Levy was one of the last to arrive at the farm-to-table celebration. At 55, he is the most senior club member and certainly one of the friendliest. Dressed smartly in a red and black flannel shirt, Levy has somewhat earned the title of the mayor of Meadowedge.
Levy wasted no time in extending warm introductions to anyone who crossed his path, beginning with his friend, Rikki Blood, who works at a nearby Wawa store, and all those within earshot.
One of the social club members stood tall with a white captain’s cap, while another appeared excited about the prospect of visiting a dinosaur exhibit. A dedicated mom sat with her son and talked to him as she helped him to enjoy the meal and his surroundings.
Meredith Jackstadt, a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, the Special Needs Program Coordinator, and Stacy Fahringer radiated boundless enthusiasm when discussing the individuals who regularly gather with them at Meadowedge. They also spoke quite highly about the volunteers who give up their personal time to enjoy some rewarding moments.
Among the members of the social club, a diverse range of disabilities is represented. Joyfully, even for those who are non-verbal, the message of acceptance and unity effortlessly transcends their differences.
Jennifer Ferrara had fun helping serve her friends food at the event. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
As the group eagerly awaited dessert, Jackstadt took the opportunity to introduce a few special guests. Santa and Mrs. Claus were already familiar faces and received a warm welcome. Additionally, three township committee members, including Deputy Mayor Joe Marte, Committeemen Al Bille, and Committeeman Al Cirulli, joined the event and were greeted with a heartful reception.
Most of the families and some of the club members have been made aware that the Meadowedge building desperately needs repairs. Officials have determined demolishing the structure would be more cost-effective than fixing it. Plans are to relocate the program into the firehouse on Birdsall Avenue.
Events like the farm-to-table meal provide an opportunity for making friends. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
However, the once-shy Emanueli decided she would personally try to appeal to the local officials while she had them in front of her. She delivered an emotional speech with unwavering determination, urging them to reconsider their decision.
“Being a person with special abilities and living in a group home most of my life,” said Emanueli. “I faced special challenges and was always very shy. Meadowedge helped me come out of my shell and have a voice and taught me life skills such as cooking, baking, planting, harvesting, and most importantly, socializing and making friends.”
Events like the farm-to-table meal provide an opportunity for making friends. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
“I have grown so much and gained a lot, and I owe a lot to Meadowedge,” Emanueli continued. “I am now an advocate for Community Options, live with my group, and I would be devastated if this building was demolished.”
When she finished speaking to the three local government officials, Emanueli’s fellow social club members applauded her and cheered in appreciation.
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