When it comes to children, especially those who are less fortunate, people’s hearts come alive with the spirit of giving – and that’s exactly what happened at the Karl’s Kids 8th annual fundraiser Ski Day at Sugarloaf.

The annual fundraiser, which was held on Saturday, February 28 at Sugarloaf, is the organization’s largest fundraiser. The festivities began on Friday, February 27 at the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel with a welcome reception and preview of silent auction items. The wide variety of auction items included many choices for dining, entertainment, and gifts, including Red Sox tickets, sailing trips, and lobster bakes.

A busload of local kids from Lincoln Academy arrived Saturday morning ready to volunteer. Some worked at the hotel getting the auction items ready for the reception, while others hit the slopes and handed out fliers letting other skiers know about Karl’s Kids, the afternoon race on the Boardwalk race course, and the evening’s festivities and silent auction.

That afternoon, more than 50 racers gave a small donation to participate in the fun race for a chance to win prizes for fastest run, slowest run and the craziest dressed skier.

By 4:30, the closing reception at the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel was abuzz with people making their silent auction bids while enjoying refreshments and hors d’ oeuvres. People who were staying at the resort enjoying a weekend of skiing stopped by the auction – some opened their wallets and gave a donation after learning more about Karl’s Kids. Children came by with their parents and handed over money they had saved to purchase a balloon that came with a secret surprise. One mother, who lost her 23-year-old son to cancer, created and donated two beautiful quilts for the silent auction, knowing the true mission of Karl’s Kids. The common thread that was woven throughout was a genuine love for children, and belief that every child should have an opportunity to participate in sports.

Karl’s Kids and the Damariscotta/Newcastle Rotary Club thank all local businesses, organizations, Sugarloaf Mountain staff, and individuals who supported the event with sponsorships, auction items, and participation in events.

According to Rotarian Mike Hall, “We want every child in Lincoln County to enjoy the benefits of sports, which in turn helps develop self-discipline, create goals, and develop an understanding of what it means to be a part of a team, sharing a common objective. Karl’s Kids relies on the generosity of sponsors and donations from the community and is grateful for the outpouring of support, which contributed to a successful event.”

Karl’s Kids is dedicated to the memory of long-time Rotarian, Karl F. Berger. Karl’s widow, Mary Berger added, “Karl would be delighted to have this event to benefit kids. Last year alone, the organization helped nearly 350 children in Lincoln County with sports-related support totaling more than $11,000. I am humbled by the love, support, and generous contributions that will go a long way in making dreams real for children in Lincoln County.”

Karl’s Kids is a Damariscotta/Newcastle, Maine Rotary Club community outreach program dedicated to removing the financial barriers that stand in the way of some kids having an opportunity to be involved in sports – whether team sports, collaborative outdoor activities, or individual pursuits.

If you are a parent, coach, teacher, mentor or friend of a child in need, please visit www.karlskids.org and complete the grant application. Information is kept strictly confidential and not released to the general public. If you have additional questions, please contact Charleen Foley at 522‐4369.