A perennial favorite among residents, the 17th annual Memorial Day event was a fun-filled, family day filled with field games, food, drinks, water slides, live music, face-painting, a fireworks extravaganza, and more. Co-hosted by the Southern Highlands Community Association and Olympia Companies SH Charitable Foundation (OCSHCF), more than 3,000 people enjoyed the free community-focused event at Olympia Sports Park honoring the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.
While admission to the family-friendly event was free, all funds collected through raffle ticket and food and beverage sales went directly to support Nellis and Creech Air Force Base’s Operation Warm Heart – a private, non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to local airmen and their families.
The event collected more than $18,000, which was then increased by the OCSHCF at the generous direction of foundation founder and CEO of Olympia Companies, Garry Goett, elevating the total donation to the local non-profit organization to $32,000.
Making the event even more special and adding to the outdoor fun, the day included the Presentation of Colors by Nellis Honor Guard. The talented Barbershop Quartet from Desert Oasis High School sang the national anthem prior to the impressive fireworks finale.
“There is no better way to celebrate Memorial Day than by joining together with family, friends, and neighbors in a beautiful outdoor setting all while raising money to support such a noteworthy organization that focuses on helping the selfless men and women in our community who serve our country,” said Angela Rock, Executive Director of OCSHCF.
To date, Olympia Companies SH Charitable Foundation has presented approximately $120,000 in donations for Operation Warm Heart through its annual Memorial Day Celebration and other efforts and events throughout the year.