'The Final Chapter - Halloween Haunt': Wheatfield fundraiser looks to go out with boo-ang

Guest editorial

My name is Jennifer Stoddard, and I would love to share a special story about a family tradition that began with a simple question from a 5-year-old boy and has continued for 15 years.

One afternoon, while driving, my son, Kyle, was reading his children's Bible in the back seat. Out of nowhere, he asked me, "Mom, if I pray really hard, do you think God will answer my prayer for world peace?"

I explained that I didn't think it would happen just like that, but perhaps God would help him and others find ways to make a difference.

A few days later, Kyle asked if we could throw a party to help people.

And that's exactly what we did.

Kyle researched nonprofit organizations, visited them, and chose to support disabled veterans and Cornerstone Manor. We organized a huge pizza party, invited our community, and collected donations for the organizations he selected.

What started as one little boy's desire to help others grew into Kyle's Guarding Warriors, a family fundraising tradition that has continued for 15 years.

Eventually, our fundraisers evolved into an annual Halloween haunt, transforming our 1.5-acre property in Wheatfield into an experience filled with scares, laughter, and community generosity.

When Kyle graduated, he passed the torch to his younger brother, Zach, who continued the tradition.

Now, with Zach preparing to graduate, our family is preparing for one final Halloween fundraiser.

“The Final Chapter – Halloween Haunt” will take place Saturday, Oct. 31, at 6825 Errick Road, Wheatfield. Trunk-or-treat from 6-9 p.m.; take a “Haunted Walk” from 7-11 p.m.; and enjoy free soup, drinks and desserts

Admission is free, but donations are strongly encouraged.

This year, Kyle's Guarding Warriors is partnering with Mason's Meals and supporting local food pantries: Friends of Night People, CVMA Chapter 19-6, and NW Helping Hands.

We are collecting nonperishable food; winter hats, gloves and socks; and hygiene items to help those in need.

After 15 years, countless volunteers, and so many wonderful memories, this final chapter is bittersweet.

What began with a little boy wondering how he could help bring peace to the world has become a tradition of giving back, bringing people together, and teaching our children that even the smallest act of kindness can make a difference.

We hope to close this chapter the same way it began – with our community coming together to help others.

Jennifer Stoddard

Kyle's Guarding Warriors

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