Published: June 17, 2009 10:29 pm      

Sports-themed fundraiser to aid victims of child abuse

Supporters of Just For Kids, a child advocacy group that assists victims of child abuse in Fayette and Raleigh counties, will have the opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled evening while helping raise money for the organization during its summer kickoff fundraiser.

The mission of the organization, which has been in operation since 2002, is to create a safe community for children and families by preventing and responding to child abuse through teamwork, collaboration and services.

The sports-themed fundraiser is set for 6:30 to 9 p.m. June 25 at Mountaineer Conference Center.

Executive director Celi Van Dyke said guests will have the opportunity to play games, including basketball, Wii racing, cornhole, football toss and putting.

Participants will buy tickets for the games and receive points for their performances as well as for their sports-themed attire.

At the end of the night, Van Dyke said, the top three point winners will receive sports packages, which will include various prizes ranging from free rounds of golf, tickets to a Pittsburgh Pirates game and minor league baseball games, Marshall University football tickets and memorabilia donated by West Virginia University and the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals.

Additionally, Van Dyke said, participants will have the chance to challenge local golf pros as well as members of the Beckley Blazers and former NBA player and Woodrow Wilson and Marshall standout Tamar Slay.

The summer kickoff is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Just For Kids.

In addition to raising funds which are used to receive matching grants, Van Dyke said, the event is also important in that it raises awareness.

“The biggest problem is that children don’t tell (when they’ve been sexually abused),” she said. “The majority of kids are too frightened to tell, so this helps us raise awareness about abuse and enables us to help.”

Advance tickets are $20 and are available at Kountry Keepsakes in Sophia or by contacting Just For Kids at 304-255-4834. Tickets will also be available at the door for $25.

Dinner, featuring hot dogs, hamburgers and bratwurst, is included with the purchase of a ticket and a cash bar will also be available.

Van Dyke says any individuals or businesses that would like to sponsor the event can also contact Just For Kids.

— E-mail: mjames@register-herald.com