Hundreds of families connected to Berks County-based CHOR Youth & Family Services spent Sunday creating memories at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom as part of the amusement park’s annual Day of Giving.
The event brought together more than 4,600 children and family members from across eastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley, providing complimentary admission and special experiences through partnerships with more than a dozen nonprofit organizations.
Among those participating was CHOR Youth & Family Services, a Berks County nonprofit that received hundreds of tickets for families involved in its programs.
@berksweekly A day of fun and unforgettable memories for local families. ❤️ Berks County-based CHOR Youth & Family Services joined thousands of children and family members at Dorney Park’s annual Day of Giving on Sunday, where the park donated more than 4,600 tickets to families served by nonprofit organizations across the region. CHOR families and volunteers were among those enjoying rides, attractions, and special experiences during the event, which celebrates the impact local nonprofits have on children and families every day.
“We’re here today thanks to Dorney Park’s Day of Giving,” said Ashley Hugg of CHOR Youth & Family Services. “We have some families here today from Berks County, Lehigh County, Doylestown, and they’re all really excited to be out here with their family enjoying the day.”
Hugg said the opportunity is especially meaningful for families served by the organization.
“Many of the families we serve face behavioral and mental health challenges, so opportunities like this give them a chance to spend quality time together, enjoy the community and create positive memories as a family,” she said.
The day began with a recognition ceremony honoring participating organizations before families were invited to enjoy exclusive early ride access and a full day of attractions throughout the park. Representatives from nonprofits including CHOR, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, A Kid Again, Valley Youth House, the Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley and others attended the event.
During the ceremony, Dorney Park officials highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for children and families to spend time together and build lasting memories.
“Today really is about celebrating our community, creating new memories for many children and families, bringing them together for a day of fun and connection,” said Ryan Eldredge, public relations manager at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom
Park Manager Kim Solis said the event reflects the park’s commitment to serving the communities beyond its gates.
“Today is one of our most favorite days of the year because it reminds us that the experience that we create here can have an impact beyond the coasters, the water slides, the very loud carousel behind us,” Solis said during the ceremony. “It’s a day that brings together community, generosity, and the simple joy of making memories together.”
In an interview following the event, Solis said the park hopes experiences like Day of Giving help create lasting traditions for participating families.
“Dorney Park has been here for over a century, so we are very focused on creating an environment and an experience that helps families build traditions and memories they can carry with them year after year,” Solis said.
Now an annual tradition, Dorney Park’s Day of Giving is designed to strengthen partnerships with organizations serving children and families throughout the region while providing a day of fun and connection for those they support.
