HEROFEST ORLANDO

HeroFest

The Orlando community came out in hundreds to Lake Eola to enjoy our first community event – HeroFest!  With activities like the SuperHero Challenge sponsored by Waste Management, Bean Bag Toss, SeaWorld.  There were fabulous prizes given. The Panera Bagel Toss, balloon art and face painting sponsored by our partners at Devereux. SuperArtists painting area sponsored by DrawChange – there was just so much fun at this HeroFest to be had!

The smell of yummy hamburgers and hot dogs filled the air. Donated and cooked onsite in a giant cooker by our great friends at Talk of the Town.  Pepsi sponsored the beverages and chips to complete the delicious meal available to all for just $1 per item.  Fruit Shoots were also handing out drinks to the thirsty Superheroes to make sure everyone stayed cool!

The event kicked off with a Lap Around the Lake for all of our Superheroes, especially foster parents to whom we gave each a Superhero cape to so that they could be recognized as the Superheroes they truly are.  And speaking of Superheroes – the Orlando Fire Department was on site with their Fire Truck so that the kids could learn more about these everyday heroes.

Onstage, The Staats family talked about their experience as long-time foster parents. Glen Casel, CEO of Community Based Care spoke about the challenges and the successes of the foster care system in our community.  We were then treated to the delightful performances by Navar Music’s students from foster care, singing and playing musical instruments to entertain the crowd.

Last but not least, Katherine was presented with the Covelli Award of Courage. This was to recognize her remarkable achievements, She overcame many obstacles that as a child in foster care. The Covelli family – Panera Bread, continues to support the Foundation and local foster children through many wonderful initiatives. It was a great end to a great day.  Click here to see photos from the event.