BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Just for Kids, in partnership with the City of Beckley, Raleigh County United for Prevention, and several community partners, will host a Family Fun Event at New River Park on Saturday, August 23.
The event will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring games, activities, free snacks, and informational booths for families.
With the theme “Hats off to families,” many activities will incorporate hats. Children can enjoy foam and bubble play, a bounce house, and a variety of games.
Kids are encouraged to bring bikes, trikes, scooters, or toy cars to decorate for a parade around the park at 1 p.m. Those without wheels can decorate a hat and join the parade on foot.
Free snacks and drinks will be available at shelter #2 near the park entrance while supplies last. The Beckley Fire Department plans to bring a fire truck for an up-close look, and the Beckley Police Department will also be on site.
Participating organizations include Just for Kids, Beckley Events / Parks and Recreation, Raleigh County United for Prevention, Beckley Water Company, Beckley Fire Department, Beckley Police Department, Beckley Rotary Club, Project Hope, Mabscott Elementary, Kabrea James (Inner Sunshine), Beckley Day Center, and Valley College.
Project GRACE Coordinator for Just for Kids, Ria Mitchell, said, “Just for Kids focuses on collaboration and innovation between community partners to serve children and families in West Virginia and promote healthy families. We are glad to work together to offer this event.”
Event Schedule (tentative):
- 11:00 a.m. – Opening; visit booths and play games
- 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. – Bike/Trike/Scooter decorating; Kids Wheels Parade at 1 p.m.
- 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. – Beckley Fire Department truck on site (if not on an emergency call) and Beckley Police Department
- 1:00 p.m. – Bike, Trike, and Wheels Parade around the park circle
- 2:00 p.m. – Event ends at New River Park
- 3:00 p.m. – Boots vs. Badges Charity Softball Game at Epling Stadium
Following the park event, the Boots vs. Badges Charity Softball Game will take place at Linda K. Epling Stadium at 3 p.m., featuring the Beckley Fire Department Boots versus the Beckley Police Department Badges. Admission is free for children 12 and under and $5 for adults.
Attendees will receive tickets for prize drawings, with prizes donated by local businesses. Between innings, children will be invited to play games and win additional prizes.
Proceeds from the game will benefit Just for Kids and the WVU Children’s Hospital, with a grand prize of a $500 Academy Sports gift card awarded at the end of the game.
