MANSFIELD — Paul Robinson and Maury Devolder believe every child in Mansfield should have a chance to ride the Carrousel.
On Saturday evening, they’ll have that chance.
Richland Carrousel Park will host the 26th annual Carrousel Christmas Party from 6 to 8 p.m.
The free event is aimed at children from low-income families. It will feature free carrousel rides, snacks and face painting. Children also receive small gifts and get to pick out Christmas decorations for their tree. Santa Claus will be in attendance.
Robinson and Devolder founded the event 28 years ago (it didn’t occur for two years during the height of the pandemic) while both were working as professors at North Central State College.
“We threw a party at the Carrousel that lasted three hours. We learned our lesson that two hours is enough,” he said with a chuckle.
“We’ve been doing it ever since with increasing community support.”
Now retired, Robinson is still spearheading the event. He gets the word out via fliers at Mansfield City Schools and agencies like Richland County Children’s Services and the Salvation Army.
Robinson estimates attendance now ranges between 300 and 400 kids each year.
He said the event won’t include hot dogs due to a scheduling conflict at the Richland Academy of the Arts, which normally hosts part of the festivities next door.
Despite being the primary organizer, Robinson said the event wouldn’t be possible without donations and volunteers.
“We have so many financial donors in the community, we have merchants who give us discounts on things or gift cards,” he said. “It’s really been a community effort.”
Robinson said Todd Hoovler, a teacher at Mansfield Senior High School, may be taking the reins of the event next year.
“This may be my last year,” Robinson said. “I’m 83. I have trouble lifting things. I still want to stay involved, but in a minor role.”
Hoovler and his family have been involved with the event for more than two decades.
“I’ve been helping more and more over the years, it’s special and a great way to kick off the holiday season,” Hoovler said.
