The roar of engines and the blare of sirens filled the air as the community came together for an unforgettable day of fun and philanthropy at the eighth annual Touch a Truck fundraiser for Kiddies Northern Preschool.
Families and children of all ages gathered for this fantastic event, which offered a unique opportunity to explore a variety of trucks up close. Admission was just five dollars per person for anyone over the age of one, making it an affordable and fun experience for everyone.
Lynn Martin who coordinated this year’s event for the first year expressed her passion on the fundraiser and it being a local support in the community
“We invited a variety of emergency vehicles, construction vehicles, recreation vehicles, whatever we can get, and then the kids come down and explore and have fun pushing the sirens and the horn and have a great time!”
RCMP and Fire Services brought vehicles, “We have a plow truck from Highways, the rock truck from Toromont. Smook brought in the loader, the recycling truck is here, United Rentals brought a couple scissor lifts, we have a flatbed and a motorcycle from A.N.T.Z Towing” Stated Martin, in which they are all people who regularly support the event annually.
“There’s lots of ways we can fundraise” Martin continued, “but this is a real connection to the community and we think this is really important for us as an organization to connect to the community, but also to get the kids out in the community and connect”
At the event, in addition to an array of engaging outdoor activities, organizers also successfully orchestrated a variety of indoor entertainment options, including a lively selection of games and a captivating silent auction held in the TRCC. Attendees were delighted by the availability of delectable lunch and snack options, which were conveniently accessible for purchase through the acquisition of tickets. Furthermore, participants eagerly partook in a draw, with the tantalizing prospect of winning $100 cash prize, adding an extra layer of excitement to the occasion.
The event culminated in a thrilling spectacle at 4:00PM, where the scheduled "Ball Drop," would give enthusiastic participants the opportunity to purchase and place a ball into the colorful loader. As the loader ascended and then dramatically released its cargo, the aim was to land the balls as close to a designated target as possible. The individual whose ball came closest to the bullseye emerged victorious, earning 50% share of the prize pool.
The Touch a Truck fundraiser was an astounding success, bringing together the community for a day of fun and learning. With the support of generous sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and enthusiastic participants, Kiddies Northern Preschool were able to surpass their fundraising goals and make a meaningful contribution towards their cause. The positive feedback and overwhelming turnout have truly made the event a memorable experience for everyone involved.
