Sunday, October 31, 2010

New Horizons Supports Kids at the Mall


Lisa, "The Witch" and Krista, "The Cat" give out treats and information about New Horizons at the Mall of Abilene


Pin the Nose on the Pumpkin


The sound of little giggles, the looks of fright and excitement, the taste of Tootsie Rolls and cherry suckers; it must be the Fall Festival at the Mall of Abilene. New Horizons was there with their spinning wheel and bag of goodies to help the kids enjoy the festivities.


From baseball players to Transformers and Minnie Mouse to Ariel, there was no end to the array of costumes. Even a short dark-haired washing machine with a box of detergent cycled around the courtyard looking for games and candy. Children lined up making their way around to all the booths hoping to try their luck at “Pin the Nose on the Pumpkin”, “Beanbag Pumpkin Toss”, and “Hit the Ghost”. A man making hats and animals out of
balloons, popular accessories to any costume, was busy filling orders. Team Chip Tae Kwon Do performing their martial arts kept the crowd entertained while waiting for their candy. Knife balancing, baton twisting, and chain whirling were just some of the acts performed by the team.
New Horizons’ characters, Lisa the witch, and Krista the cat, kept the kids’ bags full of treats. All those passing by the table received some candy and brochures about New Horizons’ treatment services and care for abused children and youth who have suffered trauma. For nearly 40 years, their mission has been to provide an environment where children and families are able to heal and grow through caring relationships and unconditional love and acceptance. Free individual or group counseling, in-home parent training, and child placing agencies are some of the programs that New Horizons offers to the community. Through activities like the Fall Festival, New Horizons hopes to tell the communities of Abilene about the services they offer for kids and families in the Big Country.