Nearly 1,000 Gather at Queens Botanical Garden for Birch Bash Celebration
On April 29, nearly 1,000 children, adolescents, and adults supported by Birch Family Services, along with their families, staff, stakeholders, and friends, came together at the Queens Botanical Garden for Birch Bash, a vibrant celebration of community, connection, and inclusion.
Set against the backdrop of spring in bloom, the day brought the entire Birch community together for a joyful experience filled with music, art, games, and shared moments. More than just an event, Birch Bash served as a powerful reflection of the spirit that has defined Birch Family Services for more than 50 years.
Throughout the day, attendees of all ages and abilities took part in a wide range of engaging activities. Creative art stations, interactive games, and live music created an atmosphere of energy and excitement, while also providing meaningful opportunities for families to connect with one another and with Birch staff. Each interaction, smile, and shared experience reinforced the sense of belonging that lies at the heart of the Birch community.
“It was a great day,” said James, an individual supported in one of our residences in Queens.
“I had so much fun today, it was great,” said William, an individual supported in one of our residences in Brooklyn.
“I am so glad they hosted this,” said Kareen, mother to four-year-old Zion from our Mill Basin Early Childhood Center. “I had no idea what to expect but just seeing all the students, teachers, and the community come together was really inspirational.”
Events like Birch Bash highlight Birch’s ongoing commitment to creating inclusive environments where individuals with autism and developmental disabilities can thrive, build relationships, and fully participate in their communities. They also serve as a reminder of the organization’s broader impact, supporting more than 2,000 individuals across New York City each day through education, residential, employment, and community-based services.
For many families, the day was not only a celebration, but an opportunity to strengthen connections, recognize progress, and simply enjoy time together in a welcoming and supportive space.
Birch Bash continues to stand as a testament to what is possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose: to support, uplift, and celebrate every individual.