NORFOLK, Neb. -- To celebrate Disability Pride month, The Arc of Norfolk held a celebration at the YMCA to build relationships and bring awareness to those with disabilities.

The Arc of Norfolk is celebrating its 70th anniversary in Norfolk this year and according to Beth Plisek, board member of the Arc, the organization wanted to celebrate Disability Pride in northeast Nebraska.

“We wanted to make sure we’re being impactful, and bringing awareness to our community in northeast Nebraska," Plisek said.

To do this, the Arc wanted to have an event during Disability Pride Month to get people out and be recognized.

The Arc of Norfolk Board President Steve Morton said the goal of the event is to ensure anyone with a disability is welcomed in Norfolk.

“We want to make sure that anyone with disabilities knows that they are part of our community," Morton said. "And that there is no shame in having a disability or something that may limit you physically, emotionally, or intellectually and you’re still a valued member.”

Morton said he anticipates the event to grow further, and said executive director Kayla Walnofer has helped do the same for events she has planned in the past.

Plisek said events like this are held throughout the year by The Arc of Norfolk and it gives a chance for Norfolk residents and businesses to learn about disabilities.

“They are able to get that awareness and that education too that we’re here, we’re proud, and we’re not going anywhere," Plisek said.

Those who went to the event were able to enjoy a Zumba class, photo booth, balloon animals, and a bounce house.

Board Member Shawn Olnes said the event was a great time and he enjoyed the connections he made with people at the event.

“I’m an individual with disabilities, and I love just hanging out with friends and family,” Olnes said.

The Arc of Norfolk is planning to do the event again next year, and Morton said he encourages people to look at their Facebook page for monthly scheduled events.