The heavy snowfall of May 31st across the Westman Region made the organizing committee of the Westman Dreams for Kids Children's Country Fair, shiver and not just from the cold.  Their annual event was scheduled for the following Sunday and they weren't sure if they were going to have bouncy castles or snow hills for their families to enjoy!

But alas the clouds parted, and the snow melted and Sunday, June 2nd turned into a beautiful day for the families of Westman to join together for family fun at the Keystone Centre grounds with blue skies and green grass.

"This is the day that we kind of give back to the community in the sense that we run this free event for children and families," shares Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation Coordinator, Danna Rudniski.  "It's an expense for us but it is a very worthwhile thing that we like to do!"

The event featured a number of activities including bouncy castles, a petting zoo, crafts and activities, and more.

Westman Dreams for Kids is a not-for-profit organization that helps to encourage families whose children are struggling with an ailment or disability through granting a gift, or a 'dream' to that child. 

The Westman Chapter began when two businessmen heard of a little boy, David, from Minnedosa who had to travel outside of Manitoba for cancer treatment.  It was decided that a small gift, a stuffed monkey, was to be given to him to help him with his treatment journey.  He named the monkey, "King Louie, after his favorite character from the Jungle Book story.

That was in 1993, and today, King Louie continues to play an important role in the Westman Dreams for Kids program as a stuffed monkey is given to each Dreams child they help.  It continues to be a reminder of this brave little boy who helped create the Westman Dreams for Kids organization that helps children and families facing serious illness and disabilities in the Westman Region and need a smile.

'Dreams' gifts range from computer systems for kids unable to attend school, to trips to Disneyland to meet their favorite characters.

In the month of May, Westman Dreams for Kids shared the winnings of the Tim Horton's Smile Cookie Campaign with the Brandon Area Community Foundation where all funds raised in the Brandon locations being divided between the two organization.  Each organization received over $57,000!

"These funds will help that immensely to help families and kids live out more dreams and to host events like our Children's Country Fair!"

For more information on Westman Dreams for Kids, please visit their website HERE!