By MEGGAN FINK
Cockopalooza Committee

ELKHART — September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness month, and what better way to support the initiative than by gathering as a community in the heart of Elkhart to raise funds and awareness for local youth?

The 12th Annual Cockopalooza cancer-fighting event in Elkhart will be held Saturday, Sept. 12. The community is invited to join in this family-friendly event in downtown Central Park starting at 11 a.m. for a fun-filled day of games, food and beverages, music, kids activities and a silent auction.

Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate in this event that generates money for United Cancer Services of Elkhart County’s financial assistance program while providing a day of healthy activity, memorable camaraderie and spirited competition.

Cockopalooza is best known for the infamous tournament rightfully called “Freedomball,” which is a hybrid combination of several familiar recreational games; softball, dodge ball and kick ball. Teams of four can register at the event with an entry fee of $150 for adult teams and $100 for youth teams (ages 13-18). All teams must be checked in by 11 a.m. with the tournament starting at 11:30 a.m.

Prizes go to the top tournament winner during the awards ceremony. Registration forms for the tournament can be found at www.cockopalooza.com or on the Facebook event page.

This is the second year that Cockopalooza has teamed up with the Pillars of Elkhart to bring the annual event downtown to continue the cancer-fighting tradition to “Party with a Purpose”.

Local food vendors including HotDogEddy, Twisted Cow Frozen Yogurt, Javi’s Taco Truck and Kona Ice will be on-site selling hot eats and yummy treats. The event will also feature a silent auction, kids bounce house and lots of fun for the whole family!

“We’re gathering together to support the local kids in our community who are going through the hardest battle they’ll ever fight… cancer,” says Jason Fink, Cockopalooza Committee member. “Elkhart has always been known for rallying around the families in our community who need us the most. Cockopalooza is our light-hearted way of showing cancer survivors that they’re not alone on this journey.”

General admission is $10 and can be purchased at the gate. You can help support the cause by sponsoring, donating, volunteering or participating in the Cockopalooza events.

For more information, visit the website or check out Cockopalooza on Facebook.