Sunday balloon launch for Rescue Mission fundraiser

July 13, 2013 at 2:21a.m.

NEW MIDDLEOWN

Eight-year-old Olivia Helmick and her team of volunteers will launch 500 balloons at 4 p.m. Sunday at Welker Park, 10711 Main St., to celebrate Olivia’s BackYard Carnival from noon to 8 p.m. Aug. 4 at the park.

Last year’s carnival, which raised over $2,000 for the Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley, outgrew Olivia’s backyard and had to be moved to the park, said Colleen Helmick, Olivia’s grandmother.

Olivia said she plans to raise even more money for the Rescue Mission this year. Every balloon in the launch will have a ticket in it to be redeemed for a free auction or raffle ticket valid the day of the carnival. For information about the event and sponsorship opportunities, call Helmick at 330-502-3390.