Oct. 6 Reaching Out Fair pays tribute to Columbine victims

The 13th annual Reaching Out Fair on Oct. 6 pays tribute to those lost in the Columbine High School tragedy.

The 13th annual Reaching Out Fair on Oct. 6 pays tribute to those lost in the Columbine High School tragedy.

The public is invited for the 6-8 p.m. fair at the Auburn Performing Arts Center, 700 E. Main St.

The fair, which was created by the Cities and Schools Forum in response to the April 20, 1999 Columbine shootings. Co-hosted by the Auburn School District, the Cities of Auburn, Algona and Pacific, Green River Community College and the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, the event is designed to put a stop to bullying and promote kindness in school communities.

This year’s theme, “Chain Reaction of Kindness,” honors the 14 students and one teacher who lost their lives in the Columbine tragedy with a message from “Rachel’s Challenge.” Rachel Joy Scott was the first student killed that day. Rachel’s Challenge was created by her family with the hopes of empowering students to influence positive change in their social community.

The resource information fair kicks off the event at 6 p.m. Children and their families will have the opportunity to learn more about resources available to them from a variety of organizations like the Auburn Valley Y, Auburn Parks, Arts and Recreation, Auburn King County Library System, Auburn Youth Resources and others. There also will be a drawing with the chance to win one of 12 $50 SuperMall gift certificates. Free pizza, juice and cookies are provided.

The evening performance begins at 7 p.m. and features a live, captivating message presented by Rachel’s Challenge team members and student testimonials about individuals who have made a difference in their lives.