FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PHILADELPHIA, PA September 1, 2026 HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy will host its 5th Annual Community Day on Saturday, October 3rd, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., celebrating World Cerebral Palsy Day, HMS’s 144th anniversary, and the students who are at the heart of the school’s work.
This year’s Community Day also marks the unveiling of HMS’s Vision for Impact, the “north star” of their new six-year strategic plan roadmap focused on strengthening the school, expanding programs and services, building community and creating new possibilities for students and families. The magic of HMS has always come from the extraordinary capabilities, joy, and resilience of our students,” said HMS President & CEO Theresa Newhard. “As we chart our path for the years ahead, we are committed to providing our students with a school experience that redefines what’s possible.. Our Vision for Impact includes everyone who believes in this commitment and champions the individuality of our students.”
As HMS looks toward the future, the school is inviting the community to help reach a $72,000 fundraising goal supporting essential programming, therapies, services and the future of the school.
Community Day is a free, family–friendly, and accessible event featuring music, a fun run and roll, face painting, scavenger hunt, Game Zone, T-shirt tie-dye, cotton candy, an auction with sports gear and local experiences, and a special floor hockey demonstration by the Philadelphia Flyers PowerPlay Power Wheelchair Team.
As HMS’s biggest fundraiser of the year, Community Day brings together students, families, staff, supporters and neighbors while creating an opportunity to learn more about the possibilities for children and young adults with cerebral palsy and other severe brain injuries.
“For 144 years, our students have shown us what is possible,” said Ceciry. “Community Day is a chance for all of us to celebrate them and welcoming the community to be part of what comes next.”
HMS 5th Annual Community Day
Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy
4400 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
www.hmsschool.org/communityday
Community Day is generously sponsored by: einard Insurance Agency, Inc., Fritz & Bianculli, Investment Performance Services, LLC, Ross Feller Casey, IBX, Herr’s, Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, Toyota – Glen Mills, Move2Include, Univest Financial, Core Human Factors, Ampro, Permobil Foundation, Team Select Home Care, Penn Dental, Maxim Health, PNC Bank, University City District, Care Options for Kids, Liberty Valley Farms, Carlino’s, Batter & Crumbs, US Foods, Geno’s Steaks, Center City Pretzel Co., Milk Jawn, and Raising Cane’s.
About HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy:
HMS School is a nonprofit school serving children and young adults with cerebral palsy and other complex physical disabilities. HMS provides education, therapy, transition services, residential and respite programming, and other supports that help students build skills, relationships and greater independence.
Media Contact:
Christina Service Contact: 215.222.2566 ext. 200
