Members of the community have been invited by Ouachita Children's Center to enjoy its first Family Fun Fair, featuring youth-focused activities and information about substance abuse prevention.
The free community event will be held at Ouachita Children's Center, 339 Charteroak St., July 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Activities will be available for family members of all ages.
"Ouachita Children's Center is committed to educating our community about the serious harm of prescription drug abuse which seems to be increasing daily," said Linda Ragsdale, executive director.
Activities will include a dunking booth, rock climbing wall, bounce houses, an inflatable obstacle course and various games. Food and refreshments will be served.
Attendees will be able to obtain free prescription medicine safe-lock boxes. Prizes will be distributed in various giveaways.
Information about local resources will be available to include members of the community in promoting safe and fun alternatives to risky juvenile behaviors. Organizers said they want to engage children and families in a fun atmosphere to promote prescription drug prevention through the development of healthy living, confidence, courage honesty and communication skills.
"Prescription drugs in the wrong hands can be deadly," Ragsdale said. "But while we're at it -- trying to educate and urge caution, that is -- we want to promote and encourage kids and their families to have some fun and engage in positive community initiatives as an alternative to risky substance abuse.
"So our Family Fun Fair will give OCC friends and neighbors a chance to do some fun stuff together, making use of our large acreage and recreational space. We hope lots of folks will join us on July 9th and learn something too."
Planning began in the spring to work with OCC's "Drinks? Drugs? Nah!" campaign and a Partnership for Success grant from the Arkansas Department of Behavioral Health to offer the Fun Fair activities. The center recently partnered with Cooperative Christian Ministries Counseling for a Block Party in Arkadelphia.
More than 115 young people attended the Block Party with other members of the community. The event was held to provide an alternative community social activity geared toward engaging youth.
Organizations can participate in the Family Fun Fair with youth-friendly activities, items, or both. No booth fee is required. Booth placement will be chosen on a first-come, first-served basis.
Participating organizations will be asked to arrive by 8:30 a.m. July 9. Those who are interested should RSVP to event coordinators Susie Reece and Angela Stein by Friday.
Reece is available at 501-249-9758 and [email protected]. Stein can be reached at 501-623-5591, extension 23, and [email protected].
Local on 06/29/2016