Washington, PA — Family fun and giving back to the community are themes for a major event planned at the Meadows Racetrack & Casino. The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association, in partnership with the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association, is hosting a “Driver Charity Challenge & Family Fun Night” on Friday (June 28).

Live racing starts at 5:30 p.m. and families can enjoy a DJ, balloon artist and face painters on the apron as well as a harness racing simulator and family-friendly giveaways in the Racebook.

During the Driver Charity Challenge, one driver will be paired with each of 10 area charities. The “winningest” driver will present a check to that charity — and at least one will go home with $3,000.

The charities are:

1. Bridge to Home Animal Rescue
2. Western PA Wounded Warriors
3. Washington County Humane Society
4. Harness Horse Youth Foundation
5. Pacing for the Cure
6. Washington County Special Olympics
7. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh
8. Arc Human Services of Washington County
9. Washington County Animal Rescue Team (WaCART)
10. Harness Racing Museum

“This is a really wonderful opportunity for harness racing to show its appreciation for the great work being done by charitable organizations in the Washington County area,” said Ashley Eisenbeil, PHRA director of marketing. “We’re also hoping that people new to the track will enjoy it.”

Dawnelle Mock, MSOA director of marketing, said, “The MSOA is thankful that the PHRA has selected our venue for this event. We welcome people of all ages to enjoy the night.”

For more information on the Driver Charity Challenge & Family Fun Night, visit www.pennhorseracing.com and click “Events” or phone Ashley Eisenbeil at 717.968.6043.