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On a bright spring morning, the sound of laughter echoed across Sweetland Amphitheatre as hundreds of families gathered for what many described as “one of the best community events in LaGrange.” From toddlers racing for golden eggs to adoptable dogs running alongside local athletes, the 2025 Community Bank & Trust Easter Egg Hunt and 5K Fun Run delivered a joyful and heart-filled celebration of community, connection and fun. 

By 10:00 a.m., the energy was electric as over 150 runners, some as young as three years old took their places for the 5K Fun Run—led by LaGrange Mayor Jim Arrington and Community Bankshares Chairman of the Board Jeremy Gilpin, who weren’t just ceremonial figures, but enthusiastic participants. 

“Events like these are what make LaGrange truly special,” said Mayor Jim Arrington. “You could feel the energy, the connection, and the joy throughout the park—it was electric. Community Bank & Trust continues to set the bar for what it means to be a community partner.” 

While the runners hit their stride, anticipation grew among the youngest attendees—kids 10 and under—who took to the field with baskets in hand and wide-eyed excitement. Thousands of brightly colored eggs were scattered across the grass, many filled with candy, toys, and a thrilling surprise: over $5,000 in cash prizes hidden inside a lucky few. As Kane Bradfield of Clockwork Youth Academy gave the “Go!” signal, the field erupted into joyful chaos. Children dashed in every direction, parents cheered from the sidelines, and golden eggs were triumphantly raised overhead like trophies. Bradfield also kept the kids engaged throughout the day with games and a dynamic obstacle course, keeping the energy high from start to finish. 

“This isn’t just about a race or an egg hunt—it’s about building memories, fostering community, and showing people we care,” said Jeremy Gilpin, Chairman of Community Bankshares Inc. “When over a hundred kids are laughing with the Easter Bunny and local families are coming together with food, fun and purpose—that’s community banking in action.”

Adding a heartwarming chapter to the day’s events, the LaGrange Troup County Humane Society brought adoptable dogs to run in the 5K—and three lucky pups found forever homes by the time the festivities came to a close, including one dog Rico that had been at the shelter for over two years. Childhood literacy was also highlighted by the presence of the Jungle Bus. Success by Six volunteers Nicole Kennedy and Gail Gordon had a steady stream of young readers who took home over 160 books provided through this partnership with United Way and the Troup County School System. 

“Watching our dogs run with families and then find their forever homes—there are no words,” said Kaley Hebert of the Humane Society. “This event gave them more than exposure. It gave them love.” 

“Our partnerships with the Humane Society the United Way reflect what we’re all about—bringing people together to make a difference,” said Bill Stump, Director of Community Banking at Community Bank & Trust. “To see families running with shelter dogs and then opening their homes to them—that’s the kind of impact we want to create. It’s meaningful, it’s local and it’s lasting.” 

The Easter Bunny also made a star appearance, delighting families with hugs and photos, while local food trucks served up delicious bites. Community Bank & Trust volunteers offered free popcorn and cotton candy for the kids, and live music filled the air with upbeat energy that matched the joyful atmosphere. 

Behind the scenes, the event ran smoothly thanks to the dedication of Lizzy Simpson and the outstanding Sweetland Amphitheatre team and the many volunteers from Community Bank & Trust whose support and attention to detail helped bring the entire day to life. 

As the sun set on a day filled with joy, excitement, and community pride, one sentiment echoed from guests and volunteers alike—this was more than just an event. It was a reminder of what makes LaGrange such a special place to call home.