Influenced by the Boys and Girls Club as a child, Vanita Williams wanted to pay it forward to the organization that did so much for her.

“I know having adults come out makes a difference in their lives, especially adults from the Army. They look up to us.”

Williams was one of about 90 Soldiers from 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, who volunteered to help organize Boys and Girls Club of the Chattahoochee Valley, East Columbus Branch’s first Summer Junior Olympics for boys and girls ages 8-12.

The events of the Junior Olympics included a dodge ball tournament, baton race, softball game, basketball tournament, obstacle course, tug-of-war and a pingpong tournament.

Twanda Christian, director of the East Columbus Branch, said the idea for the event came from suggestions by parents in the 3rd ID who have children in the Boys and Girls Club.

“The kids were very excited,” Christian said. “It’s just outstanding when we can come together as a community and work together and have fun.”

Though some of the events pitted Soldiers against the kids, it didn’t stop some of the kids from playing with intensity.

“I think (the kids) were a little intimidated at first but once they started playing and actually won some of the events, they really enjoyed it,” Christian said. “We came up with a way for kids to get exercise and have fun while doing it.”

Matthew Burnette, a 3rd ID Soldier, said the event was a great way to motivate kids to achieve their goals and it inspired him to want to volunteer with the Boys and Girls .

“It gives them a sense of accomplishment,” Burnette said. “It boosts their confidence.”

Soldiers had the option to participate with the kids, officiate, coach or run individual workout sessions. 3rd ID also lent cooks to prepare lunch for the kids.

“We went to each battalion and most of the guys were glad to come out here,” said Anthony Barnes, who organized the volunteer team. “I think they’ll get a good rapport and a better view of the local community.” Christian said she plans on making the Junior Olympics an annual event and Barnes said he hopes 3rd ID will be able to help as many years as possible.

“This is a good and positive thing for the Soldiers to do,” Barnes said. “These kids see the Soldiers and get a positive thing to look forward to.”