The community will have the opportunity to show support for local first responders while enjoying a day of family fun at Butte Park on Saturday, Oct. 7.
The Faith & First Responders event is in its second year and Kiwanis Kids Day is in its third in Hermiston, and this dual event brings them to the same location. Both events are free and open to the public, with ongoing entertainment, emergency response equipment and vehicles on display, demonstrations, and performances.
The Eastern Oregon First Responder Chaplain Association (EOFCA) is hosting the Faith & First Responders service, part of National Faith & Blue Weekend, giving an opportunity to thank and encourage law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders. Chaplains provide emotional and spiritual support to first responders who face stressful situations as part of their regular job duties.
“Our police, firefighters and EMTs are professionals who are trained to work in emergencies, but they’re also our friends and neighbors,” said Terry Cummings, Lead Chaplain for the EOFCA. “We want to recognize the valuable service they provide to our community and have the opportunity to say thank you.”
Kiwanis Kids Day is hosted by the local chapter of the service organization and includes food vendors, bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals, pony rides, a dunk tank, free ice cream, and several special events.
“We’re really looking forward to bringing these two events together at the same time and place,” said Parks & Recreation Director Brandon Artz. “Our community has been so supportive of our youth and our emergency services, and it’s a natural fit to celebrate both at beautiful Butte Park.”
Below is a schedule of events for Oct. 7:
- 10 a.m. – Hermiston High Choir Performance
- 11 a.m. – Faith & First Responders Service
- Noon – Story Time with The Next Chapter Book Store
- 1 p.m. – Trinity Martial Arts Academy Demonstration
