Step It Forward winds up with Family Fun Day
Bouncy castles, slithery reptiles, airbrushed tattoos, face paint, corn hole competitions, a shiny bright red fire truck and even a Teddy Bear picnic, those were just a few of the highlights at the Step It Forward Family Fun Day, held at the ball diamonds on Saturday, August 31.
Last year, Leteisha Berry felt a pull to find new purpose, one rooted in giving back to her community. What began as a personal calling quickly blossomed into a community-wide initiative promoting summer fitness for all ages while raising funds for local projects.
This year’s “Step It Forward” walking challenge, relaunched on July 1, encouraged both children and adults to stay active while exploring the pristine trails of Spruce Woods Provincial Park and walking around town. The summer-long challenge wrapped up with the 2nd Annual Step It Forward Family Day, a celebration alive with laughter, games, prize draws, and yes, even a few reptiles. The mouthwatering aroma of sizzling hamburgers and wood-fired pizza added to the festive atmosphere.
Congratulations went out to Matt Tirschman and Colby Cullen, crowned Step It Forward Champions for the second year in a row. Their dedication stood out as they logged the highest step counts while completing each of the weekly challenges over the six-week program.
“The event was once again very well attended,” said Berry. “It’s hard to guess how many came out this year, as families seemed to trickle in all afternoon.” Despite the hot August sun, organizers had a powerful water sprinkler on hand to keep everyone cool, while shaded areas offered cozy spots where children enjoyed story-time with student helpers Matt Tirschman, Tyden Berry and Westin Cronin.
There are many helping hands behind an event such as this and Berry commented that she is so grateful for the amazing support of volunteers who stepped up to help as well as individuals and local businesses who generously donated prizes for the auctions and draws.
“The fire truck was a massive hit and the Sponge Bob bouncy castle was being used from the moment they set it up to when it was taken down. The reptiles were a big hit as well,” smiled a very happy but exhausted Leteisha who also commented that her and her helpers are already planning next year’s event.
“Next year we will likely donate towards a project involving children as our day is made for families with kids. We have a large handful of ideas already to make next year even more successful.”
Step It Forward has quickly grown into more than just a walking challenge, it’s become a tradition that blends healthy living, family fun, and community spirit, all while giving back in meaningful ways. Proceeds from the event this year will go towards a new projection and stereo system at the Glenboro Community Hall. Sara’s Pantry also benefited from the event as many dropped off non perishable food items and purchased French Fries with the proceeds going to the local food bank.
And with each step, each laugh, and each shared moment, Step It Forward continues to do exactly what its name suggests, move the community ahead, together.
PHOTO CAPTION: The reptile display was very popular at the Family Fun Day in Glenboro on Saturday, August 30. PHOTO BY SUZANNE PADDOCK
