Volunteers and members of Creating Connections of California pose in costume as part of the “Mournsplice Mortuary” Haunted House in Wheatland. The annual fundraiser is held inside the historic Masonic Temple and helps support programs for adults with disabilities and social anxieties. Photo courtesy of Creating Connections

YUBA-SUTTER, CA (MPG) - A new nonprofit based in Wheatland is proving that community spirit and spooky fun can go hand in hand. Creating Connections of California, a family-run organization supporting people with disabilities and social anxieties, is inviting the public to its Mournsplice Mortuary Haunted House, held inside the historic Masonic Temple at 400 Front Street, Wheatland.

The haunted house operates from 6 to 10 p.m. on select dates throughout October — Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, and 31 — with admission at just $5 per person and free for children ages 6 and under. Visitors can pay at the door using cash, Venmo or Apple Pay, and enjoy food, drinks and local vendors while supporting a cause that helps local families thrive.

Creating Connections of California was founded in April 2024 by Teresa Wharton and her mother Camille McDonnell, inspired by their personal experiences and a desire to build a more inclusive community.

Participants take part in an interactive social event hosted by Creating Connections of California, where members gather twice a month for games, activities, and friendship-building experiences. Photo courtesy of Creating Connections

“Our non-profit is family owned and operated,” said Wharton. “My mom and I started this organization in hopes to provide young adults aging out of the school system and other adults with disabilities or social anxieties the opportunity to build a network of support and friendship.”

The inspiration, Wharton explained, came from her brother Trevor, who is on the autism spectrum and has struggled with social isolation.

“Because of his disabilities, his social life has suffered,” Wharton said. “We believe every person has the right to find where they belong and to also feel loved and liked by those in the community.”

This year’s haunted house fundraiser offers more than just jump scares; it’s a chance for participants — including those with disabilities — to gain valuable experience and confidence.

“We want to get rid of the negative stigma around people who have physical or intellectual disabilities,” said Wharton. “Some of our members, as well as people of the community, come together to build and operate the haunted house. It gives them work experience, team-building skills and helps build self-confidence.”

Members of Creating Connections enjoy a recent group outing at a local arcade — one of several monthly excursions designed to encourage socialization and inclusion among adults with disabilities. Photo courtesy of Creating Connections

The organization currently has about 65 members, with an average of 25 attending each social event and 15 volunteers helping with the haunted house. Creating Connections also works to host twice-monthly social events and community outings such as bowling, arcade trips, or movie nights.

Proceeds from the haunted house directly support future programs and special events. Last year, the nonprofit hosted a “Santa’s Workshop”, allowing members to shop for free holiday gifts for their loved ones — complete with wrapping included.

“We were able to provide gifts for over 65 people,” Wharton said. “Funds also go toward meals, supplies, and activities like cooking classes, paint-and-sip nights, and game nights with prizes.”

With growing membership and community involvement, Wharton and McDonnell have ambitious plans for the future.

“Our long-term goals are to host weekly events, provide free services such as transportation and work opportunities, and eventually own our own space to host,” Wharton said. “We’re also looking into opening a nonprofit thrift store where proceeds would fund those services and allow us to employ people with disabilities.”

For now, the family hopes Mournsplice Mortuary will draw visitors ready to enjoy a good scare — and a great cause. Creating Connections of California is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information, visit creatingconnectionscalifornia.com, call or text 530-237-9589, or email [email protected].