For more than 30 years, the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair has held a special morning for local special needs groups, offering them a unique and joyful experience in Statesboro. This cherished tradition was started by Sylvia Brown, and since then, it has become a staple event at the fair, continuing under the dedicated leadership of volunteers like Connie Saunders.
“Once you work this event, you just keep coming back,” Saunders shared. “There’s something truly special about spending time with these groups—they give back to us just as much as we give to them.”
On Wednesday, October 18, groups from Pineland, High Hope Adult Day Care Center, and other local organizations gathered for a morning full of magical moments.
Attendees enjoyed a cowboy show, an acrobatic trapeze act, a puppet show, and even the excitement of pig races. “We want them to feel like citizens of this community, just like anyone else,” said Saunders. “Anything we can do to make them feel included is worth it—they’re very special to our hearts.”
Chick-fil-A of Statesboro donated meal boxes for the event, ensuring everyone had a delicious midday lunch to round out the experience.
Groups from Statesboro, Glennville, and even some home-schooled children with special needs attended, making this annual program one of the most inclusive events of the fair.
Saunders reflected on the joy of seeing familiar faces year after year: “I’ve seen some of these High Hope patients for 5 or 6 years now, and every time they love and appreciate all the festivities. Many of them can’t attend the fair at night with the large crowds, so this morning event becomes their fair each year."
The event continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Kiwanis members and volunteers, who look forward to this morning of smiles, laughter, and connection each fall.
