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“Can you imagine the excitement on your child’s or grandchild’s face if they could position themselves behind the wheel of a firetruck or climb into the seat of a race car?” asks Tonya Millard, Director at Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital’s Family Resource Center. “Children and adults of all ages are fascinated with vehicles from the time they could pedal their first bicycle. Family Resource Center has provided parenting education and resources to strengthen families for many years. In our current eco­nomic times and with dwindling funding sources, our resources are being stretched to the limit with families just needing the basics, such as diapers/wipes, warm clothes, blankets, gas and taxi vouchers, etc.”

Mighty Machines are gathering for a fundraiser to benefit Family Resource Center on Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the north parking lot of Prairie du Chien High School. Admission to the event is a free-will donation. Children and their families will have an opportunity for a close-up experience with some very interesting vehicles including a race car, school bus, wrecker, tractor, and construction, rescue and law enforcement vehicles. For the first time, a monster truck will be among the featured vehicles; it will surely be a monster of a hit for all ages.

“We sincerely appreciate the generous support of our volunteers, local businesses, government, and civic organizations,” adds Amanda Nagel, Family Resource Center. “This will not only be fun, but educational as children will be able to learn about the use and operations of these mighty machines. Rescue equipment that will be on site, if conditions and situations allow, including area fire and law enforcement vehicles and a new law enforcement boat. Gundersen’s MedLink Air helicopter is scheduled to fly in if weather conditions are suitable.”

There are numerous prizes that will be raffled off including a boy’s bicycle and a girl’s bicycle. A food stand will offer a full lunch: Edgewood Locker steak sandwich, potato salad, baked beans and roll, and for the kids, a hot dog and chips. Mighty Machines is an event to conclude Screen-Free Week and a kick-off to National Hospital Week.

For more information about Mighty Machines or other programs offered by PdC Memorial Hospital’s Family Resource Center, please contact Tonya Millard, Director, at 608-357-2139.