Saturday, November 14, 2026
Halloween festivities took on a special meaning Oct. 25, as A Child Beyond Inc. hosted its second annual Trunk or Treat at Baldwin Long Island Rail Road Station. Held from noon to 3 p.m., the autism-community-focused event welcomed roughly 160 children and family members, doubling attendance from the previous year.
Families enjoyed an afternoon of decorated trunks, Halloween treats, pumpkin painting and a photo booth. The event also featured behavioral therapist Raina Lewis, who shared information with families about available services and resources. Volunteers and attendees alike arrived in costume, bringing an assortment of creepy characters to the Baldwin station.
For volunteer committee member Vannessa Moore, the event represented something much bigger than a seasonal celebration. She emphasized the importance of creating an environment where families can feel comfortable and accepted.
“I feel, and this is from the heart, that the children and the parents should have their own safe space,” Moore said. “This is a place where they can come, and their children are not judged. This is their safe space where everyone is equal.”
Fellow volunteer and advisory board member Electra Nicholson echoed that sentiment, highlighting the importance of allowing children to participate without feeling restricted or judged.
“We pride ourselves in having children in that population in the least restrictive environment,” Nicholson said. “When we have events that are separated aside for them, they’re able to have a voice. They’re able to be free and be who they truly are without being ridiculed or criticized. It’s important that we give them that opportunity and that space to be able to be free.”
A Child Beyond Inc. is a nonprofit dedicated to raising autism awareness among parents, children and the greater community. It creates opportunities for recreation, connection and learning within environments designed to feel welcoming and inclusive. To learn more about upcoming events and opportunities to get involved, visit @achildbeyond on Instagram.
