FORT MITCHELL, Ky. — Easterseals Redwood, a local organization dedicated to helping those with disabilities, hosted its 15th annual haunted house.

Staff and program participants were in full Halloween spirit. Every one was decked out in costumes ready to have a guest walk through the scary maze. However, what sets this spooky attraction apart is that it’s designed and built entirely by Easterseals’ program participants, bringing creativity and inclusivity.

“I think a lot of times in our adult day programing, we focus on all the important skills in life. So, activities of daily living, communication,” said Lindsay Dill, who is the Assistant Director of Adult Day Programing. She added, “But one of the biggest things that we forget sometimes is leisure and recreation. And we all get to participate in things like this in our life, so why not bring it here?”

As visitors entered, they were met with spooky sights and cast members, including Justin Pingel. Pingel, a participant at Easterseals Redwood, was the embodiment of his favorite character, “Beetlejuice.” Pingel had everything, including the signature striped suit and wild hair.

Dill said the best part of the haunted event is seeing the joy and pride participants feel in their work. “They love showing off their work. They love being so proud of what they’ve accomplished,” she shared. “Each year they just have so much fun being creative and coming up with their different themes.”

Pingle said he only had one message to those who dare come through, “Just be brave.”

Easterseals Redwood, which serves over 7,000 children and adults with disabilities annually, is creating more than a night of thrills and chills. The event builds a sense of inclusivity, pride and community for those who take part and those brave enough to visit.