By Jonathan Barnes

Local business leaders will team with children from Auberle in McKeesport on May 17 for the nonprofit organization's annual May Day Madness fund-raiser.

The event, known as the Corporate Coach Challenge, features the adults and children competing in a variety of mind-challenging athletic-style games.

"Besides all the fun of participating in the games and the chance to win some nice prizes, contestants have the opportunity to meet a lot of very fine people," said Cathy Oskin, Auberle's public relations and development director.

"May Day Madness is one of our most thrilling activities that the kids at Auberle participate in each year. It's a preview of what 30-some children from Auberle will experience at the H'Olympics."

She referred to games for children living in residential homes (Homes + Olympics = H'Olympics) like Auberle. The event includes participants from all over the United States. Auberle this year hopes to send three teams of senior boys, junior boys and senior girls to the H'Olympics, which will be held in Springfield, Mo.

But the cost for this year's trip will be significantly higher than last year's cost, and Auberle leaders are asking for the public's help. Due to higher travel costs and the fact that Auberle wants to send a few more children, the cost for 36 Auberle children to attend the H'Olympics will be about $25,000.

Auberle provides services for children, adolescents and families, including residential care for children who must be removed from their families because of an "at risk" situation that may include abuse, neglect or other unsafe conditions.

Auberle board member Haley Jameson-Napotnick, the May Day Madness chairwoman, said the event is a combination of goodwill and good fun.

"I love it. It's a wonderful fund-raising opportunity, because it's out on the field at Auberle, with the kids," she said. "You get to hang out with the kids, and the radio stations and probably some Steelers will be there, and everyone will get a prize. ... My favorite part of being with Auberle is spending time with the kids."