Care center plans family carnival packed with fun

The carnival is coming to town, next week at Thermopolis Rehab and Care Center.

Life Enrichment Director Meg Haderlie one of her primary duties is to help the residents enjoy life. Often when people come to the facility, she explained, their money goes to their medical care. Some do have money to also do things they enjoy.

To help provide some enjoyable activities, a fund was put in place by the Resident Council, and monitored by the life enrichment director; it is 100 percent for the residents, by the residents. Haderlie said a lot of the residents don't like being inactive and want to be involved. The fund helps pay for activities to get the residents out in the community and enjoying life, and proceeds from the carnival will go to the fund.

At the end of the year, money left in the fund goes back into the community, through programs such as the Elf Tree.

The carnival will have 15 different events, including face painting, a dunk tank, a duck pond, a football throw and a water pong game, as well as crafts and health-related booths. Food is available, with a menu that includes walking tacos, hot dogs, water and soda pop.

Haderlie noted each event requires one to three tickets, and each ticket is $1. However, wristbands are also available for $20, and are good for all the events, though food is still a separate cost.

Tables will be set up in shaded areas, and there will be live music in the gazebo as well. Tours of the facility are also available. Haderlie said there has already been a great outpouring of community support, and she is grateful for it. She looks forward to supporting the community and putting on a safe, family event.

The carnival is 2-5 p.m. June 11 at 1210 Canyon Hills Road. Those interested in volunteering or setting up booths can call 864-5591.