The Covington County Child Advocacy Center (CCCAC) announced this week it will host its first Cowboys for Kids Rodeo on Labor Day weekend.

The Rodeo will kick off at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 1, at the Hilltop Arena on Hwy 29 in Andalusia. Proceeds from will benefit the Covington County Child Advocacy Center.

The rodeo will include muttin bustin’, a calf scramble, team roping, barrel racing, bull riding, men’s & women’s breakaway roping and tie down calf roping. Buckles will be given to the All-Around Cowboy and Cowgirl. Interested participants can call in Monday, August 25, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. to (830) 279-4740 or (334) 429-0956 to enter.

District Attorney Walt Merrell and DHR Director Lesa Syler founded the CCCAC in 2015.

“We knew all too well the need, and we knew we needed to do all we could to stand in a gap for these children. Because we are non-profit, funding is crucial,” Merrell said. “Lesa and I, and the rest of our board all volunteer our time, but the services we provide to the children cost money. This rodeo will help pay for counseling, therapy and even medical treatment in some cases, for children who have a desperate need.”

The Covington County Child Advocacy Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides a child-friendly, safe environment where children who have been physically or sexually abused can tell their stories.

“Lots of these cowboys want to help,” said County Commissioner Joe Barton, who, along with Hilltop owners, Kevin and Kellye Rodgers, are handling the logistics for the event. “They know they may not be John Wayne, but they want to try to be a hero to some of these children.”

Kaci Perry, executive director of the CCCAC, said the CCCAC is looking for additional support for the rodeo and for CCCAC operations. Those interested in sponsoring a gate at the rodeo or offering volunteer support, should contact Perry at (334) 222-1881. Financial contributions can be sent to the Covington County Child Advocacy Center at 125 Medical Park Drive, Suite 103, Andalusia, Alabama 36420.