Association members met with their families and friends at the popular Italian restaurant Sottocasa, in Chiswick.

The event also celebrated the association’s 38-year history of providing assistance to the Italian community.

The sense of happiness and joy at the event was palpable, enhanced by the delicious food prepared by chef Michele and the care shown by restaurant manager Tony.

Guests joined entertainer Salvatore Di Natale during his renditions of traditional Italian songs.

The event proceeded with no master of ceremony or formal speeches, embracing instead the liveliness and spontaneity of Handital members.

This year, the celebration of the International Day of People with Disabilities marked a new direction for the association, as outlined by the United Nations (UN).

The theme chosen by the UN was: ‘Better rebuilding: towards an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world by, for and with people with disability’.

After welcoming guests, the president of Handital, Susan Carovigno, thanked every member of the committee for their constant dedication to helping people with disabilities over the past 38 years.

Carovigno also thanked the City of Canada Bay Council for its enthusiasm and readiness in always assisting Handital.

She urged guests to be more sensitive in their dealings with people who have disabilities and encouraged the community to appreciate their skills and qualities.

Soon after, Concetta Perna, the patroness of the association, took the floor to express her pride at being involved with Handital, mentioning her deep admiration and affection for the committee and members alike.

Perna acknowledged that many association members and volunteers had been working tirelessly for Handital over the past four decades, never asking for anything in return.

The Handital committee then thanked all guests, volunteers and sponsors.

Special thanks went to: Tom and Nadia Peric; the Rotary Club of Five Dock; Rocco and Concetta Perna; Pasquale and Angela Di Sisto; Giovanna Maiorana and friends; Antonietta and Alfredo Schiavo; Bernadina and Sante Torresan; Handital patrons John Sidoti and David Hall; the chef at Sottocasa Italian Restaurant; Tony, the restaurant’s manager; the restaurant’s staff; and City of Canada Bay Council.