PATERSON, NJ – Passaic County Surrogate Hon. Zoila Cassanova is partnering with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, the Passaic and Bergen County Sheriff's Office, the New Jersey State Police, and American Dream to host a sensory-friendly day for children with special needs and their families on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Designed with sensory sensitivities in mind, the event gives children with developmental disabilities the freedom to play, explore, and be themselves, while connecting their families with resources and support that can make everyday life a little easier.  
 
For Surrogate Judge Cassanova, the mission behind the day hasn't changed. "Every child in our community deserves to experience the joy that a place like American Dream offers, on their own terms," she said. "This day removes the barriers that too often keep families home. When a child with special needs walks in and feels understood, and a parent can exhale for a few hours, that's the community we're building in Passaic County."  
 
Throughout the day, children can take part in activities tailored to a calm, low-stimulation environment, from hands-on play to modified attractions. Families will also find a resource fair featuring county programs, advocacy organizations, and public safety tools built specifically for the special needs community.  
  
Passaic County Sheriff Thomas Adamo returns as a supporter of the event, pointing to the role public safety agencies play in serving families of children with disabilities. "Safety should never be the reason a family stays on the sidelines," said Sheriff Adamo. "Through our AngelSense program, we give parents of children who may wander the peace of mind that comes with knowing help is a moment away. Days like this let us meet families face to face, answer their questions, and remind them that the Sheriff's Office is in their corner."  
  
Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, who will also attend, underscored the importance of preparing first responders to serve residents with developmental disabilities. "Awareness saves lives, and it starts with information," said Prosecutor Valdes. "Our Blue Envelope program equips first responders with what they need to recognize and assist individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities in an emergency. Events like this put those tools directly into families' hands."  
  
Passaic County Commissioner Director Sandi Lazzara highlighted the event's impact on families across the county. "Every child deserves a day that is built just for them," said Director Lazzara. "For families of children with special needs, that can be hard to find. This event tells them, loud and clear, that they belong here and that Passaic County is behind them."    
 
Passaic and Bergen County participants were selected through a lottery system.  
  
For questions regarding the event, please contact:  
The Passaic County Surrogate’s Court at 973-881-4760 or Email: surrogateevents@passaiccountynj.org 
 
For further media information or if a member of the media would like to attend the event, please contact:  
Lindsay Reed  
Public Information Officer, Passaic County  
Lindsayr@passaiccountynj.org