IAAK and Gateway had joined resources and efforts to host a Fall Festival on
Friday, October 31st. The theme for the festival was that this event would be a
Kidz Safe Zone for children who wanted to celebrate Halloween in a safe
environment without the threat and risks the come with trick or treating door to
door in their neighborhoods. Each family that registered their child received a
goodie bag filled with candy and information about Halloween. The event was a
success. 750 families registered and we had an attendance of well over 1,000 who
participated and enjoyed the games, inflatables, hay ride, food and live music.
Buzz was out giving free books and several community service providers were
present to promote their services. We thank all the sponsors who made this event
happened. Special thanks to Wal-Mart who gave a generous grant for this event.
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Our faithful volunteer staff manned the registration tables |
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Children enjoyed the inflatable games |
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We recruited volunteers of all ages |
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Food was available for a nominal price which made it easy for parents |
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Popcorn was popping all night |
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We had a diverse styles of live music |
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The Carribean flavor was an attraction for many |
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Upper Room Expressions danced Hip-Hop g for the youth who loved it |
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Many youth took an interest in the dance routines and were requesting information on joining the group |
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Mimes and drama's were also performed |
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Youth had an opportunity to hang out in a safe environment |
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Buzz floated around the festival giving out books and promoting literacy |
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Kids enjoyed the face painting and clowns that were there to promote smiles!!! |
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Families came out to support and encourage their children to enjoy themselves |
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Drag Racing cars were on display by Elvin Serrano, one of our corporate sponsors |
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4 inflatable rides were there for children to enjoy |
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We had a flat bed truck as a stage and various groups performed |
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The Caterpillar was a popular inflatable |
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Young people had an opportunity to meet and greet in a great environment |
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Boys hung out with their crew |
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Children showed off with their painted faces |
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Little princesses were making fashion statements |
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Friends posing for pictures |
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The Gateway Children's choir gave us a teaser of their Christmas musical |
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Abbe Serrano sang a song with the children |
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Vintage cars were on display |
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Our Orange Festival shirts were popular and easy to identify. Many dropped by and purchased one for memories |
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