The Landon Exchange; Local charity focuses on special needs children

Saturday evening The Landon Exchange hosted a fundraiser dinner at the Jewett Civic Center.

The organization's namesake, Landon, is a local fiveyear old affected with autism, who is being raised by his great-grandmother, Maxine Lee of Buffalo. The Landon Exchange was organized with a mission of helping meet the long-term financial burden of specialized care for Landon and other special-needs children in Freestone, Limestone, Leon and Harris Counties.

Saturday's event, "Lassos and Lace" was a cowboy formal dinner and dance planned as a fundraiser and to increase awareness of the new organization. The evening was organized by Stacie Kopczynski of Houston and Karen and Dickie Eaton of Buffalo, assisted by many volunteers. A steak and shrimp dinner included entertainment by the Houston-based band Will Power.

Landon, decked out in jeans and a tuxedo jacket, was a special guest at the dinner. The timid little boy touched everyone's heart -- especially when he took a spin around the dance floor with his greatgrandmother. As Stacie Kopczynski shared, "These are not just stories on a page, but families that need our help -- and neighbors." Saturday's "Lassos and Lace" evening was the first of what will be an annual event and a second, family-friendly fundraiser is planned for later in the year.

You can visit the website of The Landon Exchange to learn more about the organization, or if you would like to put them in touch with a child who might benefit from their services: www.LandonExchange. org.