KT Sunshine Festival is This Weekend in Lake Wailes Park

The inspiration of a shortened life is raining sunshine on many others as a result of the efforts of local resident Ginny Castle.

Castle, who's daughter KT died after being struck by a wrong-way driver, has inspired hundreds of others who give their time, money and effort to the KT Sunshine Foundation. The organization will hold its annual fundraising event, the KT Sunshine BBQ and Music Festival, this weekend in Lake Wailes Park.

"KT was a bright, bubbly 22 year old ray of sunshine and we want to continue her way of living by helping our community," Castle told LakeWalesNews.Net. "This was really KT's idea,'' she added. "She wanted to start a non-profit to help people."

KT was lost in March of 2020, and Castle started the KT Sunshine Foundation in the following two months, turning her sorrow at losing her daughter into positive energy that has benefitted many.

"The entire purpose of this event is to raise money for scholarships, and to help families" through unforeseen tragedies such as the one her family suffered, Castle said. The foundation also donates to support veterans and first responders. The Foundation raised $30,000 during 2021 and has since donated $14,000 in scholarships, to support six families, and for veterans' causes.

The schedule of the event coincides with KT's birthday, an extra way to honor her memory.

The Festival will host both Professional and "backyard" BBQ teams, and also features kids games, a Cornhole Tournament, lots of live music, vendors, and of course, food and food trucks.

"Our mission is to be a light in the darkness and brighten lives one day at a time," Castle said. "We also strive to get our message out to "Eat, Drink, and BE DRIVEN!"

Friday night's headline act is Candice Glover, the Season 12 American Idol winner, who will perform at 8:00 pm. Saturday night will feature the Outta Hand Band with Cory Greenway at 7:00 pm.