By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Central Kansas CASA Executive Director Jennifer Gregg has been "shell-shocked" by the response to this year's free family fun activity. Last last week, the organization began promoting three showings of the new Mario Brothers movie at Golden Belt Cinema 6. It has since been shared more than 260 times off the group's Facebook page alone.
"This is actually an annual event," Gregg said. "I am thrilled with the response, but I was not expecting that kind of response. I'm guessing the movie title might be driving that interest. Last year we held it, and it was a brand-new movie just like this one. We only had two showtimes, and those were not full."
The activity is in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness Month, and paid for with a grant from the Dorothy Morrison Fund. Three showtimes are scheduled for Sunday, April 23, at noon, 1 p.m., and 1:30 p.m. at the movie theater in Great Bend. The event features a free movie, popcorn, and a drink. All are welcome, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Space will be limited to 550 seats, so Gregg encourages moviegoers to arrive early.
"We also encourage this as an activity for kids that are currently placed in foster care," Gregg said. "Something fun for them to get out and do and have the experience of going to a movie and getting a treat. Something they wouldn't often have the opportunity to do."
The Kansas CASA Association is a network of 22 community-based programs that recruit, train and support citizen volunteers to advocate in court for the best interests of abused and neglected children. CLICK HERE to apply to be a volunteer.