From STAFF REPORTS

CORDELE — Gather up the family and head out to the Cordele KOA this weekend for some good old-fashioned fun and the opportunity to help send children with cancer to summer camp.

According to Norma Perkins and Cindy Harrington who manage the campground, the local KOA will be collecting donations and holding fundraisers to benefit KOA Care Camps for children with cancer, the official charity of the KOA Owners Association.

This network of 35 specialized summer camps gives children with cancer, along with their siblings, a chance to experience the joys of camping while continuing their treatments.

Last year, KOA campers helped raise more than $230,000 during this extraordinary weekend.

According to Perkins, KOA visitors who bring their own campers can camp Friday night as a paying guest and get Saturday night free.

“If you don’t have a camper, don’t worry just bring your favorite lawn chair and enjoy the festivities,” said Harrington. “On Friday night starting at 5 p.m., there will be live entertainment provided by Chris Sullivan & Friends.

“Campers can enjoy a free campground meal hot off the grill at 6:30 p.m. and then sit back and enjoy the music until 9 p.m.”

Perkins said Saturday’s events begin at 8:30 a.m. with a pancake breakfast and a yard sale. Throughout the day there will be numerous events for the kids and adults alike.

For children, activities include demonstrations from a Crisp County Fire-Rescue unit, as well as a Crisp County Sheriff’s patrol car, free popcorn, tattoos, a walk on the nature trail and a coloring contest.

For the grown-ups, there will be a silent auction and a handmade quilt raffle. Local businesses also have donated several door prizes that will be given away throughout the day.

More live entertainment begins at 5 p.m. and the evening ends with an old-fashioned ice cream social at 7 p.m.

Perkins said no alcohol will be allowed at any of the activities.

“Cindy and I and the entire KOA staff invite everyone to come out for a fun-filled weekend for the whole family,” said Perkins. “Don’t miss out on this opportunity to brighten the lives of these special children.”