December 8th has officially been declared Special Hearts Day, for a IO-year period, in the State of Texas. It is a day to highlight our Texans with disabilities by celebrating their special abilities. Special Hearts Day pays tribute to the exemplary efforts of all “Special Hearts” and encourages communities throughout the state to promote and celebrate their Special Abilities. Developing and sharing the diverse abilities of individuals with special needs empowers our Special Hearts to connect with others, and, in turn, experiencing the unique gifts each person has to offer enables others to appreciate the remarkable contributions these extraordinary individuals make in their communities.  Several local community contributors have joined forces to make the first ever Special Hearts Day celebration a week to remember. This special week will honor ALL Special Hearts with ALL Special Abilities including, but not limited to The Arts, Sports, Academics, Vocational Skills, Homemaking Skills, Volunteerism, Hobbies, Social Interaction Skills, Family Contributors, etc. Special Hearts in the Arts, a performing arts center for individuals with special needs, is spearheading the launch of Special Hearts Day on a state-wide level for the first time in 2023, right here in Corpus Christi. Special Hearts Day is a collective call to action for the local community as we inspire other locations across Texas to hold their own Special Hearts Day celebrations in the years to come!