The Starke County Justice Center Fall Fest was a Howling Success!

Posted on October 17, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI

The first ever Starke County Sheriff’s Department ‘Howl-oween Fall Fest’ was a huge success.

Sheriff Bill Dulin reported that more 500 Starke County kids and adults stopped by the Justice Center on Saturday.

The day was full of fall time fun with a costume contest, hayrides to the F.A.R.M pumpkin patch and a craft activity where children had a chance to paint a wood cutout in the shape of a bat or pumpkin. All the kids also received a treat bag, some popcorn, a hot dog and a juice for free.

Sheriff Dulin shared that he was very happy with the turnout and felt that the event was positive for the individuals in the substance abuse program.

Dulin said, “I think it’s tremendous the support we get from the community because without there support, we wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing.”

He continued, “A lot of the rehabilitation with the substance abuse program goes to the support that the inmates get from either their family or the public.”

Sheriff Dulin mentioned that about $800 was raised during the event from the sale of concession items and pallet art. The pallet art is created by trustees who are in the substance abuse program. The money raised goes back into that program for books and other materials.

Dulin indicated that while they’re very grateful to the community for the monetary contributions that help keep the program running, that isn’t the most important element of holding community events like this.

He explained, “There’s more to than just getting the money, it’s more about integrating them back into society so they don’t feel like an outcast and revert back to their old habits.”

A used ornament drive is currently being held for the trustees’ next project which is making wreaths for the holiday season. These wreaths are donated to various local organizations including nursing homes, the VFW and American Legion posts.

Ornaments can be dropped off at the Demotte State Bank in Knox as well as the Justice Center, located on State Road 8. If you have any questions, call 574-772-3771 ext 2.