JF&CS Brings ‘Peanut Butter Falcon’ to Disabilities Community

About 100 local filmgoers were treated to an exclusive screening of “The Peanut Butter Falcon” Thursday, Nov. 7, at The Springs Cinema & Taphouse, Sandy Springs, followed by a conversation with one of the film’s stars.

Sponsored by Jewish Family & Career Services in partnership with the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival and the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, the private event included an appearance by actor Zack Gottsagen. Gottsagen plays a man with Down syndrome who runs away from a residential nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a pro wrestler. The comedy-drama, Gottsagen’s first feature film, also stars Shia LaBeouf and Dakota Johnson.

More than 50 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their guests attended the event. The group is affiliated with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Services of JF&CS, offering programs and services that support individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers.

Gottsagen, who has Down syndrome himself, lives independently with the support of his family. After the film, he took questions from the audience about his life and lifelong dream of acting.

“Bringing Zack to Atlanta and featuring ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ reflects the commitment behind the work we do with the disability community – striving to ensure each and every client has the opportunity to live to their full potential,” said Terri Bonoff, CEO of JF&CS.

“Zack inspired us with his big heart, his immense talent and the ability to connect with each person he engaged with,” Bonoff said.

Focusing on abilities and inclusion, IDDS offers a full-day program that includes volunteer activities and trips around Atlanta, a supportive employment program, group residences and independent living supports. Sharing this movie with its clients was important to JF&CS leadership.

“This movie is a massive leap for inclusion and Zack is leading the charge,” said Abby Frantz, IDDS Community Access Program Manager. “The fact that JF&CS assisted in bringing this film to our community is incredibly meaningful as well.”

“I will never forget watching our clients getting in line to meet Zack after the film,” Frantz said. “They got the opportunity to go to an exclusive screening and meet the star of the show – someone they could identify with. This was inspiring to many of the clients who also participate in MJCCA’s Habima Theater for adults with special needs. This was a truly groundbreaking moment.”

“We are privileged to work with VIPs every day – our clients, their families and community members in this field,” said Melissa DaSilva, IDDS director. “Zack’s heart and smile shone the most brilliant light on all of us.”

For more information about JF&CS, visit jfcsatl.org. For details about booking private events at The Springs, email April Kemp at april@springscinema.com