Since officially opening their doors this year, Kids Like Us Community Learning Center has stayed active in the region to provide opportunities for children of all ages with special needs.

Continuing that trend, officials recently announced the inaugural Kids Like Us Summer Fest is set for Saturday, May 26, from 2 to 9 p.m. at Covered Bridge Park.

Offering something for children and adults of all ages and walks of life was the primary reason for the event, according to Kids Like Us treasurer and secretary Tammy Buchanan. The cost for the event is $10 per person and $25 per family with all proceeds going to help the operation of the facility, which is located on Rogosin Drive in Elizabethton and serves the Tri-Cities region.

“It’s a great opportunity that we’ve been preparing for over the months,” Buchanan recently told the Elizabethton Star.

Lisa Lyons, founder of Kids Like Us, mentioned that various bands have donated their time to attend the event and perform for the public.

The lineup for the event is:

• 2 p.m. – John Colbaugh

• 3 p.m. – New Found Christian

• 4:30 p.m. – The Undecided & Kids Like Us Team

• 6 p.m. – Jackdaws7

• 7 p.m. – Fortress

Buchanan added the students part of Kids Like Us will be performing and have been excited for the day, practicing to give the public a good time. Music is one of the programs offered at Kids Like Us and is led by Tammy’s son, Jordan.

Other activities will be available to the public, including inflatables, cornhole, kids games, door prize, superheroes/princesses and $3 face painting. Volunteer opportunities for the event as also available to the public.

Offering a summer event is just another way Kids Like Us is looking to spread its message to the public, according to Lyons.

“We want to be there for the public,” Lyons said. “We’re not wanting to take away from other organizations in the community. We want to work together with others and give an opportunity to children and young adults with special needs. We encourage everyone from the public to stop by and see what we’re able to do at our center. It’s always a great time for everyone involved.”

Kids Like Us offers a variety of events and fundraisers throughout the year as ways to raise funds and promote their mission to the public. Individuals interested in learning more about Kids Like Us, or looking to volunteer, can visit the Kids Like Us Community Learning Center Facebook page or call (423) 470-3410.