In the average household, a loving kiss between parents elicits the standard response, “Ewwwwwwww!” Since romantic love is lost on most young children, use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to give from your heart. Teach your children to love their neighbors—those at home here in the Chattahoochee Valley as well as our global neighbors around the world by participating in one or all of these events, each for a great cause.

Father Daughter Valentine Dance for Chloe

Local homeschoolers Vance (8) and Ellie (6) Mercer conspired with mom, Kelly, to do something positive in their community. The idea of an annual benefit dance came to the fore,
and much to the Mercers’ delight, the community has pulled together to print flyers, make treats, donate silent auction items, distribute flyers and volunteer to help at the dance.

Chloe Shriver

This year’s beneficiary, 5-year-old Chloe Shriver, is no stranger to a hospital, fighting cancer (neuroblastoma) from the wee age of three. To date she has endured eight rounds of chemotherapy, surgery to remove the tumor, surgery to remove her gall bladder, two stem cell transplants and radiation. Every six weeks, Chloe travels to NYC for specialized treatments and various tests. Considering the high costs of healthcare and air travel, it is easy to imagine how quickly the bills add up.

To participate:
Dads of all ages, don your dancing shoes and bring your daughters to the St. Luke Ministry Center on February 13 at 7 p.m. Dance, enjoy Valentine sweets and snacks and buy a gift for your sweetheart at the silent auction.

Tickets, $20, available at local shops including: Monkey Joes, The Kiddie Shoppe, Pigtails and Crewcuts, 3 Wishes and Bliss!

For more information or to volunteer, contact Kelly Mercer at 706.324.2381.

Send us your comments and feedback: contactus@valleyparent.com.