The Arcola Daycare hosted its fifth annual Children's Carnival Saturday, April 25 at Prairie Place Hall.
“Out of all the fundraisers we do-for example, our Trip of the Month draws and our Little Black Dress Event-this is obviously our most kid-centred,” says daycare director Whitney Rutten. “This is our fifth year for the carnival, and it's one we really look forward to, because it's all about the kids. We're raising money for the daycare, and the kids are directly involved.”
Children of all ages enjoyed the circus-themed event, which featured three bouncers, carnival games, face-painting, temporary tattoos, a canteen, a raffle, and even a tiny dance floor.
“The kids also contributed to the carnival,” adds Rutten. “They created paintings for our silent auction, and their parents bid on those. It was a fun way for them to make their contribution, as little local artists.”
“The Children's Carnival is a nice little break for the start of spring, and it's a nice day out for families.”
Rutten says that the event is strictly admission by donation, which is made possible by the generosity of the fundraiser's sponsors.
“We want to make it easy for all children to attend,” she adds. “And that is largely thanks to our sponsors who come through for the carnival year after year, with their donations. We really want to thank them for their support.”
“ We're a non-profit organization, and the funds raised this year will help support the day-to-day operation of the daycare,” adds Rutten. “We're always looking for ways to improve.”
According to Rutten, over $10,000 was raised for the daycare at last year's carnival. “Last year was also our busiest, with about 125 kids and their families attending. This year looks great, too, especially because the weather's colder and cloudier today.”
“This one's special to us all, because it's for the kids and it's all about the kids and their families.”
