Kids to Help Kids at Preschool's Community Carnival

Kids will truly be helping kids when the Johns Creek United Methodist Church Preschool hosts its eighth annual "Kids Helping Kids" carnival on Saturday.

The event has become a community staple, drawing some 1,500 attendees last year and raising $35,000 for great causes.

"It's really a trio of fundraising for three special causes," said the school's Mitzi Ritchie. 

Proceeds benefit Camp Sparrowwood (a camp for children with special needs), the pediatric unit at Emory Johns Creek and the preschool itself. Funds go to items such as wheelchair ramps for the camp; rockers, artwork and toys for the pediatric unit and scholarships to the preschool.

More than 60 festival attractions include pony rides, a petting zoo, carnival rides, inflatables, tons of games, puppet show, animal show, face painting, a silent auction, food and more. Auction items include something for all budgets, such as trips, safaris, a golf cart, event tickets and baskets.

"It really is a family event," Ritchie said, adding that the carnival is rain or shine, as most of the attractions can be moved indoors to the gym if necessary.

The "Kids Helping Kids" carnival is Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the JCUMC Preschool, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, rain or shine.

Tickets sold at the door: 12 tickets for $10; 20 for $15, 35 for $22; or wristbands for $25. Pony rides, concessions and special attractions are cash only.

Visit www.facebook.com/JCUMCPreschoolCarnival or email carnival@johnscreekumc.org for more information.