Give the Gift of a Smile: Operation Smile

Quite a few of the Sassy Mamas are involved with a huge family charity fund-raising extravaganza supporting Operation Smile that is taking place on Saturday (September 25) at Toys “R” Us in TST.  Wonderland, a carnival-themed event, will raise funds to benefit Operation Smile’s work in China to provide free surgeries and post-operative care to children with cleft lips and cleft palates.

It’s going to be a simply over-the-top morning – let’s put it this way: it’s taking place at Toys “R” Us before opening hours, and Barbie, Thomas the Tank Engine, Angelina Ballerina, and Ben and Gwen are just a few of the special guests who will be on hand.

And what’s more, ALL funds raised are going directly to Operation Smile to fund a medical mission – and Toys “R” Us is donating 15% of sales at the event.

First, the serious stuff:
Did you know that in China, roughly 1 in every 600 children is born with a cleft lip, cleft palate, or both? Many families cannot afford proper medical treatment, and their children face a lifetime of social and physical hardship. A one-hour surgery, however, can change this. Operation Smile, the worldwide children’s medical charity, conducted its first medical mission to China in 1991. To date, Operation Smile China Medical Mission has helped over 17,000 needy children and young adults regain their smiles and self-confidence to lead healthy lives.

Now, on the event details! Let’s just say, the event isn’t called Wonderland for nothing!  Here’s a look at what’s in store for you and your kids:

*Live performances and meet-and-greet opportunities with a wide range of popular characters including Barbie, Mr.Potato Head, Mr. Monopoly, Barney, Angelina Ballerina, Bobfrom Bob the Builder and the Fat Controller from Thomas the Tank Engine, and Ben and Gwen from Ben 10.

*Larger-than-life versions ofclassic games such as Monopoly, Connect Four, Twister and Jenga.

*Unique activities such as aGirlie Beauty Parlour, a Playdoh Creativity Class, and a Nerf Target Station.

*One-of-a-kind installations such as a giant 3-D Thomas the Tank Engine and a huge LEGOsmile made fromover 100,000 LEGO bricks that Wonderland guests will help assemble.

And course, what would a carnival-themed event be without puppeteers, jugglers, clowns, musicians, and hip-hop dance classes?

Event details: