Transforming Warman into a World of Wonder!

I approached HVAF’s property at Warman with Terri, a veteran who has benefited from housing and employment services through HVAF, along with her two little girls in tow.

We discussed the carnival on the way, building excitement and anticipation for the annual event. As we drove up, we were greeted by children adorned with balloon creations of every sort, faces painted with Batman, butterflies, and Spider-Man, and the aroma of grilled burgers and hot dogs.

I was astounded by the scene: people laughing, balloons and banners creating a circus-like atmosphere, and children running, skipping, and jumping everywhere!

It was a moment of wonder, childhood at its best. I felt my inner child emerge, and I couldn’t wait to join the fun. Later in the day, I found myself happily taking pie after pie in the face, as children gleefully paid five tickets to cover me in whipped cream!

35 volunteers and staff members created this world of wonder. Two volunteers led the charge, fulfilling every aspect of the committee’s vision to provide a day of pure magic and enchantment for our veteran families.

In the end, 117 people, including 20 families and 10 single veterans, won prizes, played games, and devoured all the delectable food!

Thankfully, because of wonderful partners like the JD Foundation, Jonathan Jennings DAR, American Legions and VFWs, and the hearts of dedicated staff and volunteers, this day was a huge success.

At the end of the day, 62 donated pairs of shoes and backpacks, countless painted faces, balloon animals, and cheerful memories were carried away from the World of Wonder, leaving Warman to return to its serene, park-like atmosphere.

As I drove Terri and her two girls home, they babbled and giggled, showing me their prizes. Eventually, the youngest drifted off to sleep, as she had given all she had to the World of Wonder.

Perhaps she will dream about what she saw and have lasting memories of being astounded by an experience she had never had before, an experience every child deserves. The HVAF Veteran Engagement Committee’s mission is to ensure this happens for every one of the families we serve!

If you would like to learn how to support the Veteran Engagement Committee, please contact Andrea Carlile at acarlile@hvaf.org.

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