Eggsceptional Family members enjoy egg hunt

By Laury Bitecofer, EFMP Manager, Fort BelvoirApril 15, 2011

Eggsceptional Family members enjoy egg hunt
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT BELVOIR, Va. - The Defense Acquisition University was the site of the 24th annual Exceptional Family Member Program Easter Egg Hunt Saturday.

DAU personnel started the event more than two decades ago as a way to give back to the community. Each year, DAU and the Protestant Women of the Chapel partner for the event. The PWOC provided Easter baskets with candy, stuffed animals, books and games. This year, Girl Scouts donated cookies and volunteered to help with craft activities.

DAU provided the space, candy, eggs, barbecue, and buckets to collect the eggs. The Easter Bunny took time out of his schedule to visit with the Families and have his picture taken. DAU volunteers manned activities, including face-painting, arts and crafts and games. The event culminated with the children taking turns swinging at a surprise-filled piAfA+-ata.

Donna Reece, who has volunteered at the event for many years, is retiring and has recruited her daughter, Kristen Russell, to carry on the volunteering tradition. Special thanks go to all the DAU volunteers and to the Easter Bunny for their longtime commitment to the EFMP Families.

The DAU volunteers said they find working with the event satisfying because they can see the enjoyment the children and their Families had during the event. The Families shared what a wonderful time they had and expressed their appreciation to the DAU staff and the PWOC for their efforts.

The Fort Belvoir EFMP is available for additional recreational activities as well as parent support groups, information and referral, and other assistance. Active-duty Army EFMs meeting eligibility criteria may be eligible for Army EFMP respite care. All EFM Families should contact the ACS EFMP program at 703-805-1835 for information.