When Krystle Chocker of Steps to Success, a Leola preschool and day care service, heard that Fritz Elementary School was holding a Trunk or Treat, she thought it would be a great idea for Steps to hold one as well. "We just got a bigger space," said Chocker, referring to Steps' move to Zion Lutheran Church, 18 Quarry Road, Leola, earlier in the year. "What better way to bring our community together?"

The first Steps to Success Trunk or Treat, which is open to the Conestoga Valley community, will be held on Saturday, Oct. 30, from 5 to 7 p.m., in the parking lot of the Zion Lutheran Church. The event will feature a number of decorated trunks, candy, free food, and the illusions of Papa Tater.

According to Steps to Success founder and executive director Michelle Harbaugh, the event began as an outreach to parents of children who participate in the program after other planned activities were canceled due to COVID-19 concerns.

"We were hoping to do something outdoors, said Adriana Witman, school age program administrator with Steps. When the school approached the church about using the parking lot, church members were intrigued.

"The church (membership) is really excited," explained Harbaugh, who noted that the first two car owners to sign up to decorate their trunks were church members.

Once the event was open to the church community, the protocol for the event became apparent. Both church members and parents of children who attend Steps to Success have been invited to participate by decorating their trunks. Trunk themes will include Dr. Seuss and "Jurassic Park." Organizers believe they can fit at least 40 cars in the ample lot behind the church.

But candy offered from decorated trunks is only the beginning of the event. Food will include free hot dogs, chips, and beverages. Families that attend and follow the designated trick-or-treat route are encouraged to dress up, and they will also have the opportunity to enjoy the magic of Papa Tater. Tater, who specializes in comedy and illusions, has been performing in the Lancaster area for more than a decade. His shows are known for being interactive with the goal of both amazing and amusing his audience.

More information on the program may be found by searching for "Steps to Success Christian Early Learning Center" on Facebook. Those wishing to attend are asked to register by calling 717-803-5441 or emailing adrianawitman.steps@gmail.com.