Summer. Sure makes us think of picnics, barbecues, bicycling and parks. Well, on Saturday, June 2, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. you can experience all that and more at Hill Air Force Base's Centennial Park during the Walk, Run, Ride Exploring Family Fun event for families with special needs. This will be the third annual summer picnic for families with special needs on the base. Last year's event brought approximately 200 participants, a train ride, great food, friends and bouncy castles.
In line with the Air Force theme of fitness this event is aimed at fitness for all kids of all abilities. The Walk, Run, Ride theme was created to give families a sense of togetherness in outdoor activities regardless of ability levels. Hill Air Force Base's Special Needs Resource Team (composed of Tammy Custer, EFMP-FS, Judith Mauhgan, SLO and Family Support 360¼ project staff Amy Notwell, Eddie Mahurin and Hollen Partington) have created a course that will be manageable for all walkers, strollers, wheelchairs, canes, crutches, skates, bicycles and more. Everyone is encouraged to bring a bike or skates or at least a good pair of tennis shoes to get some exercise.
"This is meant to be fun for the entire family no matter what their ability" said Tammy Custer.
This year, thanks to Chase Maughan and Boy Scout Troop 479 from Utah Lake there will be exciting activities for each child to participate in. Chase has designed an Eagle Scout project to include 13 Boy Scouts setting up 10 stations along the route. Each station will have an activity for the child to complete. Each child will receive a sash and upon completion of each of the ten activities receive a badge to add to their sash.
The Special Needs Resource Team also ran a T-shirt design contest for this event. The winner of the contest was Shanoah Murray and her design will be featured on T-shirts given out free to the first 150 participants at the event.
"This year's event is going to be much more fun and exciting than we have had before" said Judith Maughan, School Liaison Officer.
The staff would also like to thank Robert Debry for donating eight bicycle helmets in assorted sizes that will be given away at the event.
The Walk, Run, Ride begins at 9:30 am.
There will be a lunch of hot dogs, chips and drinks served at 11:30. Two bounce houses will be available as well as the splash pad and regular park playground equipment.
To RSVP for this event call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 801-777-4681 or contact Tammy Custer, 801-586-2611 for more information.
"Every child will be given the opportunity to do what they can, how they can. It will be a great day for everyone, "said Eddie Mahurin, FS 360 service navigator.
