From Athletic Edge Sports & Fitness

Athletic Edge Sports & Fitness hosted its third-annual Winter Carnivals for the Special Needs Children of Beaufort and Martin counties on March 21 and 22.

“It is our desire to provide these children of eastern North Carolina a safe, fun environment filled with exciting games and activities in which to build skills, self-esteem and friendships,” said Laura Horton, with Athletic Edge. “Our goal is to give them a day they will never forget. To see the smiles on the faces of those children as they walk through the door — that is priceless,”

Martin County Schools brought its special needs students to Athletic Edge on Thursday, and Beaufort County Schools brought its students on Friday.

“I have been an educator for many years, so when I came to Athletic Edge, I wanted to give back to the students, teachers and the community,” Horton continued. “It is such a wonderful experience to see children, from pre-kindergarten through high school, spend time together.”

Over the course of the two days, a total of 230 participants turned out for the carnivals. Various games, snacks, inflatables, arts and crafts, activities, music and sports were available for the participants. Forty-seven students from Washington High School’s National Honor Society volunteered to run the stations and interact with the visitors.

“This special and memorable event could not have been possible without the help of community sponsors. We are very thankful for their support,” Horton concluded.