By creating an inviting, fun, and active environment at Morgan's Wonderland Sports Complex, KFW Foundation's Kick-Off Event was the perfect way to celebrate the foundation's birth.

Complimented by sunny skies and spring-like temperatures, this high-energy, heart-healthy, two-option ticketed event gave attendees the flexibility to find a workout that best fits them. Appealing to all ages, this event provided a diverse range of activities for all attendees. The best part yet? All proceeds from the event will contribute to Morgan's Wonderland and the Children's Hunger Fund!

Developing the Foundation

In 2016, to celebrate the company's 10th anniversary, KFW Engineers officially adopted Morgan's Wonderland. A strong bond was built with the park when KFW had the honor of becoming the civil engineers for Morgan's Water Park- Inspiration Island, Morgan's Wonderland Sports Complex, and soon to come summer 2021- Morgan's Wonderland Camp. After watching the additions be built from the ground up, KFW pledged to help raise $100,000 for Morgan's Wonderland. It was then that the idea of starting KFW Foundation sparked in the hearts of KFW leaders to help support Morgan's and additional non-profits. In January 2021, KFW was granted their non-profit 501 (c)(3) status, and the foundation officially began.

The first step in developing the foundation began with the heart and soul of the company- the associates. All of KFW was asked to take a poll to help determine the foundation's mission. After conducting quantitative research analysis, the mission statement was created:

Enhancing the community we helped engineer by promoting education, ending poverty, and supporting individuals with disabilities.

Through this, the company decided to help support the Children's Hunger Fund's initiative to end poverty while emphasizing Morgan's Wonderland's mission of inclusion.

Wake Up Those Lungs

The Train Anytime morning event consisted of cardio & mixed interval training. Starting at the complex, the fun run/walk 5k coursed through Morgan's Wonderland's park, wrapped around the lake, and proceeded back for attendees to prepare for the athletic interval challenge.

Wes Gary, the owner of local and private gyms, Train Anytime, designed his competitive workout with fun in mind, teaming up with DJ Men-Yo to ensure all workout participants had a blast.

After breaking a sure sweat, all attendees enjoyed tacos and pancakes from Tommy’s Restaurant while having a chance to converse with Kourtney and David from the Children's Hunger Fund.

The morning continued with excitement as a surprise guest star, Joy, made an appearance.

Burn Those Day Calories

The Bootcamp Nation evening event began with a swag bag filled with t-shirts, water bottles, and donated workout bands.

Held on the Sports Complex's shaded basketball court, this neon-themed event contained vendors from Reign Total Body Fuel and Rock’s Discount Vitamins.

Coach JT, CEO of Bootcamp Nation, held his co-ed resistance training and HIIT workout, with DJ Jarvis spinning lively beats.

The crowd contained men, women, and children of all ages while enjoying this uplifting resistance training. As the KFW Foundation kick-off event wrapped up with delicious brisket sandwiches from Smoke BBQ + Skybar, it became evident that the positive impact radiated throughout the audience.

To Our Contributors, We Thank You

KFW Foundation is beyond grateful to our sponsors, our volunteer team, and the wonderful people behind Morgan’s Wonderland for their aid in making the Kick-Off Event a reality.

Our Sponsors

First, we thank Wes Gary owner of Train Anytime, Bootcamp Nation’s CEO JT Liles, and COO, Andrea Garcia, for their leadership in designing and leading such fun-filled workout events. In addition to this, we thank Jefferson Bank for their T-shirt and water bottle sponsorship, allowing us to provide fresh and refreshing merchandise for all event attendees. And we can’t forget our food sponsors, Tommy’s Restaurant and Smoke BBQ for supplying delicious meals for the event.

Our Volunteers

Next, we are proud of our KFW Volunteers: Justin and Megan Warren, Kristin Heggy, Jennifer De Leon, Ryan Oxenreiter, April Bratton, Aby Romero, and Erin Salinas. Each of these individuals personally ensured that the KFW Foundation Kick-Off Event exceeded our prior expectations through their service greeting every event attendee with a warm smile and energetic attitude.

Lastly, KFW takes a moment to recognize the team that offered their venue for the event - the Morgan’s Wonderland team. The dedication and diligence of Brooke Matula, Morgan’s Wonderland Recreation Therapy Director, alongside Brooke Kearney and Danielle Henning, was evident in the planning and execution of the event.

In Conclusion

The KFW Foundation Kick-Off Event resulted in more than just fun memories, but a recognizable sum of donations. The event was able to raise close $8,000 in support of the non-profit organizations. The Foundation is truly blessed to have contributors of all kinds alongside us while creating such an impactful launch.