02/07/2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For media inquires, please contact:
Melanie Hungerford - Big Balloon Build Impact & Engagement Coordinator
Cell: (703) 622-4573
[email protected]
Local San Francisco born, balloon artist helping to create out of this world, immersive exhibit with 125,000 balloons for charity July 17-20
06/29/2023 (Greely, CO) - Korene Tom, owner of Fortune Kookie Fun in San Francisco will soon be taking off to join 75 balloon artists from all around the world at the Big Balloon Build in Greely, Colorado to benefit Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy.
Teams of the world’s top balloon artists will take over a local community college and build the larger-than-life, space-themed exhibit out of 125,000 biodegradable balloons in just four days before opening it to the public to walk-thru and enjoy. All proceeds from the event benefit Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy, which gives a voice to children who have been abused or neglected.
“We know that this is a tough subject to talk about, but nonetheless it needs to be brought up,” said Stuart Davies, Director of the Big Balloon Build. “Korene Tom is going to be part of something so big, something so different, something so exciting; all in support of ‘Life Stories’ demonstrating how the joy of balloons can also make a difference to the lives of so many.”
Korene Tom is donating her time and talents as a balloon artist to embark on this mission, bringing joy and support to children. Korene started Fortune Kookie Fun in 2000. Specializing in family entertainment, balloon artistry, fantasy face painting, magic shows, mobile party casino and balloon decorations in classic and creative designs. Korene Tom was selected from thousands of applicants to participate in the Big Balloon Build Colorado.
I am absolutely thrilled to be part of the Big Balloon Build and to help Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy shine a light of healing to the neglected and abused. The opportunity to create amazing large installations for all to enjoy warms my heart.
This is my third participation in a large scale balloon build to benefit charities in America. I love collaborating with balloon artists from around the world. I dedicate my advanced skills to mold and transform a simple balloon into art that creates joy, happiness, wonder and imagination. Follow me on this adventure! Tap in on Instagram, Facebook, Yelp and FortuneKookieFun.com to see the spiritual magic happen. Cheers - Korene
This is only the fourth time the Big Balloon Build has been held in the US. Pictures/video of previous Big Balloon Builds are available here.
While Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy, in Greeley, CO, is the beneficiary of Big Balloon Build Colorado, child abuse is a national issue. Roughly every ten seconds a report of child abuse in made in the United States. One in ten children will be sexually abused before they turn 18. Life Stories has sister agencies right here in San Francisco. To find out how you can help children locally who have been abused or neglected, contact SFCASA.og. Together Fortune Kookie Fun, the Big Balloon Build, and these agencies can give a voice to children who have been abused or neglected and stop it from happening to more children.
Follow the Big Balloon Build and Korene Tom on Facebook and Instagram + a behind-the-scenes look during the build week of July 17-20th.
PremiereConwin, the country’s leading manufacturer of high-quality balloon inflators, donated all equipment and Gemar, a leading manufacturer of 100% bio-based rubber balloons, is donating all 125,000+ biodegradable balloons for the Balloon Build Colorado.
About Big Balloon Build: The Big Balloon Build is a non-profit organization that partners with charities to raise awareness and funds to help children in need. Dedicated to creating magical and immersive balloon experiences, every Big Balloon Build is unique offering an amazing opportunity to make a difference through the joy of balloons. www.bigballoonbuild.com
About Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy: Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy believes that every child deserves a life free from abuse, in a safe and permanent home. By listening to and advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect, Life Stories is committed to creating a better tomorrow for our precious youth. www.lifestoriesweld.org
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The Big Balloon Build brings together 70 Balloon Professionals from around the world to create a unique and immersive Balloon Wonderland in partnership with a charity supporting disabled or disadvantaged children and families. It is an amazing platform for the charity to raise funds, run events in,....
