BEDFORD- The International Award-Winning 2024 Kiwanis Indiana Balloon Fest is set to take flight on September 27th and 28th at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds in Bedford. This year’s event promises to be better than ever.
Vanessa McClary, Lieutenant Governor for the Hoosier Division and founder of the Kiwanis Indiana Balloon Fest, said, “People want to see balloons, they want to see skydivers, but the real reason we are here is to support Kiwanis and the kids they serve.” This is the festival’s 12th installment and the most significant yearly fundraising event for the Hoosier Division of Indiana Kiwanis.
As Vanessa and communities across Indiana work to support the next generation, one organization continues to stand out in its dedication to improving the lives of children. The Indiana Kiwanis clubs, part of a global volunteer movement, have been making a profound impact through education, service, and advocacy. From providing scholarships to building playgrounds, their mission to serve children is at the heart of everything they do.
Indiana Kiwanis clubs are part of Kiwanis International, a global organization focused on improving the lives of children through service projects and programs. In Indiana, Kiwanis clubs work on a variety of initiatives aimed at helping kids in their communities. Some of their efforts include:
- Supporting Education: Many clubs provide scholarships, school supplies, and reading programs to promote education and literacy among children.
- Service Leadership Programs: Kiwanis sponsors youth leadership programs like Key Club (high school), Builders Club (middle school), and K-Kids (elementary), which help develop leadership skills and foster a commitment to community service.
- Addressing Health and Hunger Needs: Indiana Kiwanis clubs often partner with food banks or organize events to provide meals to children in need. Some also support health initiatives like fundraising for hospitals or providing health screenings for kids.
- Community Projects: Clubs often organize community-based projects like building playgrounds, sponsoring youth sports teams, or hosting family-friendly events to create safe, engaging environments for children to thrive.
- Advocating for Children’s Welfare: Indiana Kiwanis clubs may focus on child welfare advocacy by supporting initiatives that protect children from abuse, neglect, or health-related issues.
These efforts are all driven by a commitment to “Serving the Children of the World,” with a local focus on positively impacting kids’ lives in Indiana.
The WBIW News team was invited to the media event for a little teaser of what will come, and the Kiwanis Balloon Fest will not disappoint. Colorful balloons were unfurled, and safety checks were completed; it was time to inflate and fly!
Attendees of the 2024 Kiwanis Indiana Balloon Fest can look forward to their favorites, such as dazzling fireworks, thrilling pyrotechnic skydivers, and a woodcarver. For the adventurous, tethered balloon rides and full-fledged balloon rides will be available. Families will enjoy the exciting adult and youth egg hunts, and the eggs are full of incredible prizes.
This year’s Kiwanis Indiana Balloon Fest introduces a host of new and exciting events. Thrill seekers will love the addition of amusement rides, while car enthusiasts can check out the Bedford IN Jeepers Show and Shine. Kids will have a blast at the Touch-A-Truck event and unleash their creativity at Cookies & Canvas.
The 2024 Kiwanis Indiana Balloon Fest has become a highly anticipated yearly event in the area, and it’s only getting bigger. This event has it all: balloon rides, skydivers, fireworks, amusement rides, and more. Come out to the Lawrence County Fairgrounds, 11265 US-50, Bedford, on September 27 and 28 for a day you won’t forget, especially if you are brave enough to ride!
