Pool Day Fundraiser Benefits County Rec Centers

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine (WAGM) - Some county kids were making a splash for a good cause. Five county rec departments came together this afternoon at the Fort Fairfield pool for a fundraiser benefiting the Northern Maine Recreation Association. Fort Fairfield, Madawaska, Easton, Washburn, and Ashland all sent kids and officials raising money for the association one lap at a time.

Hillary Hallett, an Easton Rec Dept. official said: “Northern Maine Community Rec supports activities throughout the school year, year-round on the calendar. So, we do all of our group sports but some of our communities are smaller. So, it gives them an opportunity to participate in tournaments and more competitive type programs at the rec level.”

“A lot of our programs that we run travel teams we run together for the county. So, this is just a little boost for us to be able to provide programs for our kids. Whenever we take field trips it’s gotta be a pool. So, rain or shine our kids are going in,” added Madawaska Rec Dept. official Rebecca Cyr.

Even with cloudy skies, the kids had no complaints. Max Clark, a kid from the Easton Rec Dept. said, “The fact that they’re doing that I’m very happy. I think it’s my favorite thing. I went to swimming lessons before, right before this.”

Adrienne Dionne, from the Madawaska Rec Dept added, “I like that the bigger one is better and deeper and I don’t need a life jacket.”

Madawaska Rec Dept attendee, Kenzie Waltz said, “I’m having a good time. It’s a blast and an experience to have.”

Scarlet from the Madawaska Rec Dept added, “It’s really fun.” Kids and officials alike say they’re grateful for everyone who donated during the event. The funds will go directly to the Northern Maine Recreation Association, helping keep county kids active.