ECHS Senior Organizing 'Special Friends Field Day'
A student at a local high school will be playing softball while raising awareness and money for a unique group of kids.
Karli Godwin is senior at East Columbus Junior Senior High, and a star of the Lady Gators softball team. She recently signed on with Oklahoma State University to join their softball team on graduation from ECJHS.
On April 28, from 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., she will be hosting a 'Special Friends Field Day' at the ECJHS football field.
There will be snacks, games, music, and other activities for all those in attendance. Every student in Columbus and Whiteville City School systems is welcome. All proceeds and donations are going towards building a sensory playground designed to accommodate special needs individuals.
Godwin's request to hold the event was approved by both the school and the Columbus County Board of Education. The purpose is one that is near and dear to her heart.
"My mission is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of education of the special needs students in our community," said Godwin in a Facebook post.
This isn't just a phase for the young Godwin. Upon graduation, she will be attending Oklahoma State University to study Business and Special Education while playing softball for the school.
"These children inspire me each and every day in everything that they do. I hope this project can make even the smallest difference in their lives because they have made a huge one in mine," she expressed.
She chose the date in April to not only celebrate the last day of Autism Awareness Month, but to also involve the sport she loves the most into the festivities.
The night of the event, the East Columbus Softball team has a home matchup against South Columbus and the team will host an 'Autism Awareness Game'. She is encouraging differently abled kids and their families to attend and participate.
Sponsorships for the field day are available starting at $250 and up. The teenager is also looking for volunteers and supporters to help out the day of. Other groups assisting with 'Special Friends Field Day' include the East Columbus EC Program, the school's student council, and other staff and donors. T-shirts can also be purchased for $15.
To help out the day of the event or to donate to the cause, contact Allison Edwards at 910.625.8639, or Karli Godwin at 910.840.1594. You can also find out more information by visiting Godwin's Facebook page. East Columbus High School is located at 32 Gator Lane in Lake Waccamaw.