PRESS PHOTOS BY KATHY HASSICKCutting and serving a cake celebrating 40 years of magic are Camelot founder Pat Mullin, Executive Director Emily Werner and Board President Nick Weidman.

Gathering together with Founder Pat Mullin to celebrate Camelot’s 40-year milestone are volunteer Jeanne Southardi, campers Ashley Marais, Justin Kaniper, Olivia Neiley, Nathan Staak, Brody Kleckner and volunteer Taylor Crompton.

Camelot for Children, a nonprofit located at 2354 W. Emmaus Ave., Allentown, has become a beacon of respite for families and caregivers as well as a place for children with significant medical or special needs to have fun, feel a sense of belonging and build lifelong friendships.

(Right) Pat Mullin with participant (left) Nathan Staak recounts her personal journey which led her to create a place where children with medical complexities and special needs could come and experience the magic of the mythical Camelot through play and fellowship.

Ashley Marias enjoys her cake as much as she has been enjoying making friends and participating in camps and social events at Camelot for the past five years.

Camelot for Children Board of Directors were on hand for the 40th birthday celebration. Directors include Mark Miller, Kris DePaolo, Ryan Williams, Lauren Sokolski, Nick Weidman and Katie Dwyer.

Emily Werner, executive director of Camelot for Children and Nick Weidman, board president, welcome the large crowd at the Camelot facility Feb. 18 to celebrate the success of 40 years of dedicated service providing, through the help of generous donors, year-round social, recreational and educational opportunities for children with special needs or medical complexities and their families.