The Women for Harding, a Christian service organization on campus, hosted their sixth annual Princess and Superhero Party in the Heritage for children in the community last Saturday, Jan. 19.
The Princess and Superhero Party began in 2012 with a vision of helping the community through hosting a Disney themed party for children in the nearby areas. Each year, scholars from Women for Harding dress up as either Disney characters or superheroes and spend the morning dressed as beloved characters for children ages two to 12. They are invited to dress up as their favorite princess or superhero. The characters are introduced in the Heritage Auditorium as they walk down the aisle. One of Harding’s singing groups, “For Certain,” performed a sing-a-long set-list of Disney songs. The upstairs of the Heritage is used to house crafts, games, snacks, Lego play room, house-of-hair room, Disney party store and more.
“I love seeing how excited the kids are, and I’m thankful that we can offer something like this for them right here at home,” Debbie Howard, volunteer coordinator of Women for Harding said.
Howard said that there are many moving parts in the event and that everyone comes together to work as a team. They have at least 60 volunteers, with student workers filling in the gaps. All the scholars participate and all the members of Women for Harding help out.
“Teamwork is what makes it work,” Howard said. “Everyone who helps out really takes ownership of their task no matter what that is. Everyone owns their space and wants to make that space the best it can be, so that when a child comes to them, it’s a memorable moment. I think that’s what makes it work every year.”
Student scholars have been blessed by the Women for Harding and want to do their part in giving back to the community.
“It’s always really fun to work with kids,” senior scholar Dakota Ellis said. “I love the excitement that the kids have with the superheroes. There’s something about being with kids that produces no stress. It’s just fun and relaxing, and you’re being looked up to.”
Through the event, Women for Harding are able to raise money for their scholarships, and the scholars are able to engage with the community.
“I really enjoy the beginning of the party where the characters get introduced to the kids, and I’m looking forward to that again,” senior scholar Madison Haskins said. “I’m excited for the change up being Sleeping Beauty, since I was Elsa the past three years.”
