Des Moines, Iowa – Over 12,725 individuals enjoyed a fun-filled weekend at Children & Families of Iowa’s (CFI) Kidsfest, presented by Veridian Credit Union, and helped provide funding for programs that serve Iowa’s at-risk families.
Held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds Varied Industries Building, attendees enjoyed childfriendly exhibitors and activities. Entertaining stage shows included Sartron the interactive robot, Princess Story Time, and guest appearances by Spiderman and Batman. Other big attractions included Academy of Wildlife Education, a circus train, inflatables, kids glamour spa, face painting, and arts and crafts.
Most importantly was the event’s focus on ‘kids helping kids’. Proceeds generated from the event support Children & Families of Iowa’s programs for at-risk children across Iowa. “Kids helping kids is really what this event is all about, and that focus provides assistance to thousands of people in need,” says Amy Stapp-Arpy, Children & Families of Iowa’s Chief Development Officer and Vice President of Development and Communications.
Support from individuals who attended the event will help families like Angie* and her two daughters find the guidance they need to live happy, healthy lives. In an effort to escape from her abusive partner, Angie and her daughters fled to CFI’s domestic violence shelter with only the clothing they were wearing and very limited financial resources. The family sought refuge at the shelter, where CFI staff helped Angie gain employment, qualify for housing assistance, and save enough money to move her family into their own apartment. Angie continues to work toward building a financially stable life for her family, and is thankful they are now safe and free from violence.
*Name has been changed to protect client confidentiality.
Last year CFI’s domestic violence shelter provided safe shelter for 497 individuals, many of them children. Overall, CFI helped more than 18,200 individuals throughout Iowa with many family-centered services. Thanks to community support, including Kidsfest sponsors, exhibitors and attendees, CFI will be able to use funds raised to help support the programs that help families in crisis.
Many sponsors were key to making this event a success. We appreciate the support of our presenting sponsor Veridian Credit Union; our media sponsors KCCI TV 8, Cumulus Media, and the Des Moines Register; and our supporting sponsors Fareway, Wells Fargo, GuideOne Insurance, CoOpportunity Health and Iowa School of Beauty.
