SARC Event Raises $80K To Help Abuse Victims

Approximately $80,000 was raised this weekend to help abuse victims at the fourth annual Rising Above It Hot Air Balloon Family Fun Day.

The event raises funds for SARC (Safety, Awareness, Resource Change), which is a Harford County nonprofit that provides hope and resources to victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse and stalking. 

The fundraising endeavor took place over two days. Friday night featured a hot air balloon gala at Bulle Rock in Havre de Grace, while Saturday boasted family fun day.

“The event went really well,” said SARC Community Relations Coordinator Kelsey Luchey. “We had a great turnout for volunteers, and a lot more vendor support than in previous years.”

Typically, the Family Fun Day features a hot air balloon launch, however, due to the rainy weather, the launch was not able to take place. However, Luchey said the pilots were still on site with their baskets to talk with guests. 

The Family Fun Day featured many events including horseback rides, a variety of animals, local business vendors and visits from the Oriole Bird and Ravens mascot, Poe. Luchey said the kids in particular enjoyed the mascot visits.

“The reaction from the kids was great. Just in general to see the fun the kids were having,” Luchey said. “Their faces really lit up…just to see how excited they were even without the hot air balloons was great.”

Luchey said the weekend events raised about $80,000 for SARC, which will benefit the multiple services the organization offers abuse victims.