The 7th annual Kids 4 Kids carnival raised more than $5,000 for the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center’s child-life programs Aug 19.

“We surpassed our goal,” beamed Kids 4 Kids co-founder and Union Township resident Missy Bastin. “We were a little concerned this year with the economy and gas prices being the way they are, but once again the community came out to support us in our efforts.”

Kids 4 Kids is a local, not-for-profit organization. One of its primary goals is to raise money to help local children who are going through a rough time, whether spiritually, emotionally, or financially. The organization was founded more than half a century ago.

“We date back over 50 years,” Bastin said. “It started in my mother’s front yard with people just throwing quarters onto plates. Since that time, we have grown quite a bit. In the past six years, we have been having these late summer carnivals.”

All of the proceeds raised at this year’s carnival will be used to fulfill the wish lists of children currently in the hospital.

“We get a wish list from the medical center’s child life departments. It includes everything from games, televisions, cameras, and DVDs. We will shop for the desired items and then deliver them. It is a way for us to help alleviate the suffering and provide some comfort to children in the hospital. It is a way to make their hospital stay less stressful,” Bastin said.

The carnival, which was attended by more than 300 people, consisted of family games, food, and a dunking booth.

“We know that we are not going to compete with the festivals that have gambling and beer sales,” said Bastin. “We totally cater to the family. People do not have to go broke at our carnival and their money makes a difference to area kids.”

Several local school teachers, principals, and administrators took a turn in the dunking booth.

Batavia Elementary School Assistant Principal Renee Carroll, who was dunked about 15 times in 30 minutes, said that she had a great time participating.

“I was approached with the idea and was happy to do it,” she said. “It was a fun day of family entertainment. Kids 4 Kids is an important organization and I was proud to be a part of the carnival. It truly is all about the kids.”

Kids 4 Kids organizes fund-raising activities and events throughout the year.

For more information or to make a donation, call (513) 753-6646 or visit them online at www.cincykids4kids.org.