LEBANON -- The James E. Ward Agricultural Center will host the annual March of Dimes Wilson County Kick Off to be held on Tuesday, Feb. 23. Registration begins at 12 Noon in the Gentry Building, and the program starts at 12:15 p.m.

The Kick Off provides attendees with the opportunity to learn more about the March of Dimes’ mission and its annual fundraising event, the Wilson County March for Babies. The program will feature several keynote speakers including Ryan Collins and family, the 2010 Ambassadors for Wilson County. 

This marks the first time a local ambassador has been a teenager. Ryan, son of Barry and Leonora Collins, is a 17-year-old junior at Lebanon High School. His family will be sharing his personal story and their strong commitment to the March of Dimes.

The March of Dimes Kick Off is open to the general public. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Children are welcome to attend.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Leigh Tenewitz at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or 399-3200.

About the March of Dimes -- The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit www.marchofdimes.com or www.nacersano.org.