United Way Invites Central Floridians to Free Volunteer Carnival

WHO: Heart of Florida United Way

WHAT: Step Right Up! United Way Volunteer Carnival

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 2012; 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

WHERE: Heart of Florida United Way; 1940 Traylor Blvd.; Orlando, FL 32804

COST: Free admission, games, entertainment, and refreshments (while quantities last).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Organized by Heart of Florida United Way to celebrate National Volunteer Week, Step Right Up! is a family-friendly volunteer carnival that connects residents with service opportunities at more than 20 various local nonprofits.

Chaired by Orlando Police Chief Paul Rooney, carnival participants will play games, including “dunk-a-cop” dunk tank, bean bag toss, spin the wheel to win and a hula hoop contest. Participants will also indulge in traditional carnival treats, enjoy face-painting, a bounce house, and other entertainment while learning about ways they can make a difference.

Orlando Magic Community Ambassador Bo Outlaw will also be present, taking part in the volunteer activities and encouraging residents to get involved. On-site volunteer activities include:

– Assembling 150 Hi-5 food packs for at-risk children served by Second Harvest Food Bank

– Writing 200 encouraging letters to middle school students served by the Interfaith School Turnaround Program

– Sorting and assembling education kits for the Early Learning Coalition of Orange County

– Assembling 150 hygiene kits for children in a residential program

– Sending 50 customized emails to a local representative, encouraging them to support educational programs
For more information about volunteering through HFUW, please call (407) 429-2136 or visit www.hfuw.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Michele Plant, Director of Marketing and Communications, at 407-230-3468 or at [email protected].