GFWC Woman’s Club of Safford brings Valentine’s fun to those with special needs

Luis Padilla and Gina Nabor share a slow dance during the GFWC Woman's Club Valentine's Dance for those with special needs at The Venue on Main on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026. - David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Posted By: David Bell February 12, 2026

SAFFORD — Love was in the air at The Venue on Main in Safford on Thursday.

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Safford hosted its annual Valentine’s Dance for those with special needs, with school children from Dan Hinton School, Safford Middle School and Safford High School attending in the morning.

“We had 20 more over last year, so it was close to 80 jammed in here, and it was pretty wild,” said organizer Donna McGaughey.

Miranda Landavzzo poses with a Teddy bear for her personalized photo during the GFWC Woman’s Club of Safford Valentine’s Dance for those with special needs.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

The adults from Great Communities Resource Center (GCRC) and Easter Seals Blake Foundation attend in the afternoon. Both the morning and afternoon attendees get individual photos by Lori Dugan, a keepsake, snacks and plenty of dancing courtesy of DJ Tom Thompson.

Becky Johnson started the dance at the club on Main Street in 2009. It remained there until attendance grew so large, a new space was needed. That’s when Kym Gifford stepped in and offered the club use of The Venue starting in 2022.

Henry Jurado, left, Dean Boyd and Hope Stoner hit the dance floor, thanks to the music played by DJ Tom Thompson.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

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