3rd Annual HOPE Center Community Carnival

Pony rides or the Denver Fire Department fire truck? It’s tough to say which was more popular with the kids at this year’s HOPE Center Community Carnival. No surprise, the biggest congregation of adult females was seen around the firefighters. There definitely was something for everyone at the third annual event held on Saturday, July 19, at the HOPE Center venue in Denver.

Hot dog and a snow cone…life is good!

Guests munched on popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones and grilled hot dogs, while water and soft drinks helped folks cool off on a hot, summer day. The grounds were full of activity, with carnival games, ponies, bouncy houses and the Denver fire engine on display. Organizers also invited nonprofit organizations to talk with guests about their community services.

Kids flocked to see Denver firefighters and tour their fire truck.

When asked if this was a fundraiser, CEO Gerie Grimes simply said, “It’s a friend-raiser.” She explained that while guests paid very modest fees for games and food ($2 could get you a hot dog and beverage), overall the event was a thank-you to HOPE Center’s volunteers, participants and supporters. And with no admission charge, it was also a chance for neighbors to check out the organization while enjoying the carnival games and atmosphere.

HOPE Center is a community-based agency dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, developmental delays and persons in need of specialized educational or vocational services, from ages 2-1/2 years to adulthood. These services are provided in order to develop, maintain and enhance the functioning of each enrollee. The philosophy of service is to admit individuals to programs within the agency which meet their needs and requirements as specifically as possible. For more information, please visit: www.HopeCenterInc.org.