Budget cuts put a strain on the funding for this year’s annual Communities in Schools of Renton field trip. But thanks to community donations, the Renton nonprofit was still able to hold its annual party for the program’s mentors and mentees.

The party was Thursday from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Highlands Neighborhood Center.

About 200 pairs of mentors and mentees attended Thursday’s picnic, as did Ronald McDonald, the Seahawks’ Blitz and DJs from the Seattle radio station MOViN 92.5.

These special guests were paid for by various community members, as was the picnic’s hot dogs, candy, water, games and prizes. The City of Renton even paid for the use of the neighborhood center.

If not for the many donations, CISR’s annual field trip would not have been possible, says Erin Iverson, CISR mentor program manager.

“We probably could not have put it on this year because of budget cuts, but we weren’t willing to sacrifice it,” Iverson said. “Since January we’ve been working really hard on it, to secure donations, so we could make it happen for the kids.”

Communities in Schools of Renton supports Renton families and students with mentor and family liaison programs. For more information, or to volunteer or make a donation to CISR, visit www.renton.ciswa.org.