The village of Wellesley will get together to kick off summer and celebrate a number of accomplishments June 25 at Fam Jam 2010 in the community centre parking lot. The evening event will be a time for the splash park committee and the Wellesley Youth Advisory Council to come together and celebrate the opening of two new recreation facilities with local residents – both the new splash pad and a skate park will be opening in Wellesley this summer.

“So many young families come to Wellesley, but in the past we haven’t had many things for the kids to do,” explained Carrie Siewert, a splash park committee member, and Fam Jam organizer. “We need parks and places for them to play during the summer so we’re quite excited about this project.”

A highlight for youth and adults alike will be the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6 p.m., when the new skate park will be officially open for use. Skateboarding demos as well as a sale of merchandise will follow the ribbon-cutting.

Also on tap are activities for kids, including a bouncy castle, a dunk tank, face painting and carnival games. There will also be events for adults, such as a number of draws and live music.

“It’s going to be a really fun night for young kids and adults alike,” said Siewert. “There is a backyard barbeque feel to it, it’s a chance to come out and talk with friends and neighbours.”

The splash park committee brought forward a budget to Wellesley council a few weeks ago that estimates the total cost of the project at $175,000. Currently, the committee has access to nearly $160,000, and fundraising efforts continue. The township approved an interest-free loan for the committee of up to $30,000 if needed.

“Wellesley is a very supportive community and I feel my children are very fortunate to grow up in a town surrounded with such caring and generous residents, community groups, and business owners,” said Siewert. “I am so happy with the support we have seen from local residents and the township so far.”

To raise the remainder of the funds, the splash park committee is fundraising in the community and asking individuals and families to give, as well as hosting events such as Fam Jam. There will be no admission cost to use the splash park and it will be open to everyone. The committee hopes to reach their fundraising goal this summer and have the park open for use sometime in August.

Fam Jam will run 5-9 p.m. Proceeds from the barbeque and family fun carnival will go to the splash park. To sponsor a carnival booth, or for more information about the event, call 519-656-9050.