School’s out, but that doesn’t mean the kids get to have all of the fun!

Sandhills Children’s Center is hosting the third annual Backyard Bocce Bash on Aug. 13-14.

The day will consist of 32 teams of four playing on 16 bocce courts competing in a tournament-style bracket for the chance to come home with the first place trophy.

Weichert Realtors Larose & Company will host a pairings party Friday, Aug. 13, at Sandhills Children’s Center. Light appetizers and adult beverages will be served at this casual party.

All types of teams are welcome: corporate, family or groups of friends.

A team of four is $100. Those wishing to upgrade their status can pay $350 to become a VIP team, which includes a tent and the assurance of shade on a Saturday in August.

“Organize a team, think of a clever team name and register soon. Bring a picnic for the tournament day and tailgate as a VIP, with prizes to be awarded for team spirit and best decorated tent,” says Teresa Copper, special events coordinator.

All funds raised during the Bocce Bash will go directly to Sandhills Children’s Center, a private nonprofit developmental day school program for children ages birth through 5 with and without disabilities.

Through this annual event, more than 100 children with chronic illnesses such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy and other developmental delays will receive educational and therapeutic services year round.

“Currently, the cost of care per child in our program exceeds $60,000 per year. Private donations are essential in the continuity of care for our young students and enables Sandhills Children’s Center to provide physical, occupational and speech therapy, class instruction by state certified teachers, transportation, meals and so much more,” says Kathy Desmond, director of development.

“Every day we strive to create a community where children with disabilities are accepted and empowered. On days like the Bocce Bash, I know that we are getting closer to this vision,” says Desmond. “Each year, we have a high rate of returning participants, and those people bring their friends, and those people, their friends.”

To learn more about this upcoming event and Sandhills Children’s Center, visit the website www.backyardbocce.org or call Teresa Copper at (910) 692-3323.