OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) -Officials with Florida Kids Helping Kids are hosting an all-day telethon on Labor Day to help build a permanent home for Marion County youth.
The event kicks off the “Give 4 Marion” campaign for Florida Kids Helping Kids.
Fundraising goal
All proceeds from the telethon go toward building a fairground and event center for the youth. The organization’s goal is to raise $4 million.
Kids will have access to after-school activities, school supply drives, leadership programs and volunteer services through the organization.
Participants share experiences
Lesley Hernandez-Sanchez competes in pageants with Florida Kids Helping Kids and said the organization allows her to open up more.
“The pageants, like, make me open up more. And at school and stuff like that, I feel like I’m more quiet. And when I’m at pageants and stuff, the people who compete with me, I have more of a connection with them because they have the same passion as me,” Hernandez-Sanchez said.
Those attending the event can find activities including cookie decorating and a casino night.
Some teens even traveled from Oklahoma to play their fiddles at the event.
“Oh my. It feels awesome to be able to just come down here and help the people. It means a lot to me to be able to help other kids,” said Aven Nercessian, who performed at the telethon.
Three-phase plan
Officials with Florida Kids Helping Kids said they have a three-phase goal. First, they need funds to purchase the land, then build the infrastructure, and then raise more money to build affordable housing for young adults entering the workforce after graduating high school.
You can donate by texting “FKHK” to 5355 or by clicking here.
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