Beloved hands-on family event returns with VIP access, sensory-friendly hour and opportunities to support local students
NEW ORLEANS — The Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) is thrilled to announce the return of TOUCH-A-TRUCK®, presented by Ochsner Children’s, Saturday, Nov. 15 at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. This family-friendly event gives children of all ages a chance to have a hands-on experience with 30 trucks, machines and vehicles that build, serve and protect the Greater New Orleans community.
From helicopters to bulldozers, fire engines to utility trucks, TOUCH-A-TRUCK® lets kids climb, explore and learn about the machines and meet community heroes who keep our city safe and strong. Doors open to all guests at 10 a.m., with VIP early access beginning at 9 a.m. Families can enjoy the event throughout the day, with a special sensory-friendly hour at 2 p.m. designed for children who benefit from reduced noise and lights.
“TOUCH-A-TRUCK® brings joy, wonder and learning to thousands of children and families every year,” said JLNO President Michelle Clarke Payne. “It’s a celebration of community, and it reflects JLNO’s commitment to supporting children and families through education, hands-on experiences and access to opportunities they might not otherwise have.”
Through JLNO’s Hard Hat Helpers program, community members can help open the gates of TOUCH-A-TRUCK® to students from underserved schools. Donations fund Field Trip Friday, giving hundreds of local children the chance to experience the excitement and wonder of the event at no cost—an unforgettable day they might not otherwise have. Families looking to make the day even more special can rev up the fun with a TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Birthday Party, the ultimate celebration for kids who love trucks, machines and adventure.
New this year and powered by Cox Communications, JLNO is raffling a $2,500 Walt Disney World® gift card with custom trip planning by InteleTravel, offering seamless assistance with accommodations, dining, park itineraries, and exclusive Disney extras. Entries are $10 each, and the winner will be drawn live at the TOUCH-A-TRUCK® event at 3 p.m. Winners do not have to be present for the raffle.
TOUCH-A-TRUCK® is made possible thanks to the generous support of presenting sponsor Ochsner Children’s, as well as Cox Communications, American Safety, Raising Cane’s, Manning Family Children’s, Louisiana Blue Foundation, Lamar, Sunbelt Rentals, Maritime Partners, and many others.
About Junior League New Orleans
Junior League of New Orleans is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. More information on the organization can be found at www.jlno.org