The goal of LifeTown, a 53,000-square-foot facility in Livingston, New Jersey, is to “help the world become a place where people of special abilities are seen for the unique skills they have and the beauty they bring to the world.”
While many speak of people with “special needs,” the use of the phrase “special abilities” demonstrates the commitment of LifeTown to finding and accentuating what makes each person unique.
Among the features of LifeTown, developed by the non-profit Friendship Circle, are “Life Village,” a simulated town square with streets, traffic lights, a park, sidewalks and shops; an Aquatic Center; a Therapeutic Activity Wing, designed to mimic a natural park and beach setting; a Gymnasium equipped with sound-absorbent walls and ceiling that enable individuals with sensory overload to participate in sports; and a Youth Center that houses an Early Childhood Center, Dance and Music Studio and Birthday Center.
Now, thanks to the financial support of Jody and Bruce Friedman, along with the participation of Brunswick Bowling and Pinnacle Entertainment Group, LifeTown also includes a three-lane bowling installation specially designed for the neurodiverse community.
“Helping kids is a great cause for Brunswick,” said Corey Dykstra, CEO of Brunswick Bowling. “It was really simple for us to say yes to this project. It’s beautiful to see today, and it’s so exciting to watch the kids interact with bowling. I think we all agree that bowling is such a wonderful sport because everyone can do it.”
Brunswick also provided a pair of Hall of Fame bowlers — long-time staff members Johnny Petraglia and Parker Bohn III — to appear at the center’s grand opening on Jan. 22 and provide tips to many of LifeTown’s adult participants.
“When we were introduced to LifeTown, we immediately saw the impact this center has on the community and knew we wanted to be involved,” said George McAuliffe, president of Pinnacle Entertainment Group. “Our team was honored to donate our consulting services to help bring the vision for bowling to life. When I reached out to Corey Dykstra, he didn’t hesitate. Within minutes, he committed to donating the equipment at cost, a major contribution that made this project possible.”
Added McAuliffe: “Seeing the joy and inclusivity this space now brings to families is incredibly rewarding, and we’re proud to have played a role in making it happen.”
The LifeTown bowling project reflects a commitment to making the sport more welcoming for individuals of all abilities.
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