One of the Comox Valley’s longest-running fundraisers returns Sunday as the Children’s Telethon celebrates its 51st year.

The Comox Valley Child Development Association will broadcast the eight-hour event live from Courtenay’s Sid Williams Theatre from noon until 8 p.m.

Admission is free, and families are welcome to drop in at any point during the day to enjoy more than 30 performances, special guests, raffles and children’s activities.

Canadian children’s entertainer Fred Penner is scheduled to perform at 3:15 p.m., joining a full lineup of local musicians, choirs, dancers and other community performers.

Those unable to attend in person can watch the Telethon through Rogers TV or follow the live online stream from home.

Several fundraising opportunities are available leading up to and during the broadcast.

Supporters can make a direct donation, bid on more than 100 items in the online silent auction or purchase tickets for the 50-50 draw and WestJet Gift of Flight raffle.

The winning raffle tickets are scheduled to be announced during the final hour of Sunday’s broadcast.

Last year’s 50th-anniversary Telethon raised $133,690 with help from donors, volunteers, performers and local businesses.

All proceeds remain in the Comox Valley, where the Child Development Association supported more than one thousand children last year through 17 different programs.

The money helps the association continue providing essential services for local children, youth and adults with diverse abilities and their families.

Since the first Children’s Telethon, the annual fundraiser has generated more than two million dollars for the association’s work in the community.

To learn more or to donate, visit Comox Valley Child Development Association.