August 22 and 23rd saw the First Annual Offroad 4 kids in Hoosick Falls, NY. The event was designed to benefit the MentorWorks program. Through the generous support of Atlantic British Ltd. we were able to combine three of my passions, kids, community and off roading!
MentorWorks is a program that is helping Hoosick Falls youth develop their talents and potential through one-on-one partnerships with caring adults. Research has shown that caring adults can improve a child’s chance for: academic success, increased self-esteem, and avoidance of risky behaviors. Many of the youth have a desperate need for positive adult role models. The number of single-parent homes and two-parent working families has increased dramatically and support networks are needed to help support these families. The program matches youth and adults with similar interests and supports them in weekly meetings. It also provides monthly large group activities and 6 field trips a year ranging from learning to blow glass at a glass studio to a New York City trip during the holiday season.
The weather cooperated and forty trucks arrived to support and participate in the weekend. We navigated trails in and around the Bennington and Manchester Vermont areas with trails offered in a variety of truck and driver ability levels. Saturday night Atlantic British sponsored a barbecue at the Hoosick Falls Youth and Community Center for all of the event participants along with a silent auction, door prizes and 50/50 raffle. Through the generous support of Atlantic British Ltd. and Bill Burke’s 4 wheeling America we were able to raise the necessary money to continue with our field trip plans.
Funding for the program is provided through a Federal grant but it does not cover all aspects. For instance, there is an expectation that field trips will be incorporated in the program but no funding provided for them. Fundraisers such as Offroad 4 Kids provide the necessary resources to provide our youth with experiences they might not have otherwise.
Since the event we have continued to receive money from the Land Rover community. If you are interested in donating or perhaps purchasing an event t shirt (100% of the profit goes directly to the program) please email carlaneriston@yahoo.com. Each donation supports us and allows us to continue this valuable work in our community. If you were unable to attend this year’s event but are interested, please look for us online at www.offroad4kids.com for dates and information on future events.
It was amazing to see three of my passions combined and to realize that the Land Rover community will always show up to support a worthy cause. Thank you to Atlantic British Ltd. and to all participants for making this such a successful event.
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