‘Blessings in a Backpack’ First to Join Pirate Rendezvous Kid’s Camp Crew

“Blessings in Backpack,” a program providing weekend meals for children in need at Jefferson Village School, is the first non-profit group to sign on to help out at the Damariscotta River Pirate Rendezvous coming Saturday, June 20. Their efforts in assisting with children’s games and activities at the Kid’s Pirate Camp will allow them to take home a share of profits from the day to support their work at JVS.

The Pirate Rendezvous is seeking additional non-profits to help out at the Kid’s Pirate Camp. “What we’re looking for are non-profits, or individuals who would like to benefit a non-profit, to sign up for a 4-hour shift helping out with games and activities,” said Event Director Greg Latimer.

When the event is over and the “treasure” counted, it will be shared out based on shifts covered by the non-profits and their supporters. Non-profits will also be welcome to distribute information while working at the event.

The JVS Blessings in Backpack team are already experienced “pirate helpers,” having been part of the crew for the 2014 Pirate Rendezvous, and earning a tidy sum for their efforts. With a larger Kid’s Pirate Camp, and more volunteers to staff it, they are looking forward to an even better “haul” this year.

“Our objective is to create an event that encourages the participation of, and fundraising for, a wide range of local non-profits,” Latimer said.

The primary beneficiaries for the Pirate Rendezvous, the Ecumenical Food Pantry and Big Brothers Big Sisters, are also helping make the event happen. “All of our beneficiaries are event participants,” Latimer said.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is providing volunteers to help support general operations and activities at the Pirate Bazaar.

The Ecumenical Food Pantry is providing volunteers and logistical support at the Kid’s Pirate Camp, and will benefit from fundraising at that location as well as JVS Blessings in a Backpack and all the other non-profits who sign up to join the crew.

The Damariscotta River Pirate Rendezvous runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with pirates attacking at high noon on Saturday, June 20. There is no charge for admission.

For more information on how to join the crew at Kid’s Pirate Camp, contact Volunteers Coordinator Bob Conger at 207-677-3403 or email bob.conger@towerswatson.com.

For more information on the Pirate Rendezvous, check www.piraterendezvous.com or contact Greg Latimer (the pirate “Scribe”) at 207-380-9912 or greglatimer@yahoo.com.

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