Sampson County Parks and Recreation will offer its 4th Annual “Touch a Truck Day” this Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to Noon at the East Park Cinema Theater parking lot. This free event has been such a success in the past years that SCPR is bringing it back.

This event targets children age two to five, but everyone is welcome. “Last year we had entire families coming to the event. From babies to grandparents, it truly was an event that the whole family could enjoy,” states Richard Carr, event organizer. What makes “Touch a Truck Day” unique, is that it provides children with a hands on experience. If they want to honk the horn, make the siren sound, or flash lights, they can. Fire trucks, garbage trucks, bull dozers, cement mixers, and tractors are just a few of the “trucks” that will be on hand for this year’s event. Flex the HEALTH Hound, Sampson County Parks and Recreation’s lovable mascot, will also be making an appearance at this year’s events.

“The most common reaction I have to this event is ‘touch a what?’” states Carr. Touch a Truck Day is actually quite simple. All the parents have to do is sign their children in at the registration table. They will then get a button, sticker, and a bag. After that it’s off to investigate any and every vehicle that is out there! “It’s that easy” says Carr. “On the way out we will ask the parents to fill out a quick survey to see what they thought of the event and to receive any feedback possible.”

The best part about this event is that it involves the whole community. It takes a group effort and many partnerships to make this a success. Everyone pulls together; from the companies that bring the equipment, to the movie theater for a great location, and to the citizens that attend, this truly is a community affair. If anyone has questions about “Touch a Truck Day” you can call Richard Carr at (910) 214-4267.