PromiseFest celebrates a new school year

Children’s activities are just part of PromiseFest, which combines family and kids’ games and fun, food, live entertainment and information. CONTRIBUTED

Children’s activities are just part of PromiseFest, which combines family and kids’ games and fun, food, live entertainment and information. CONTRIBUTED

Not many kids likely celebrate the start of a new school year. Springfield Promise Neighborhood is making it a little easier.

The seventh annual PromiseFest will take place when school is out – noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at Lincoln Elementary School. The public is invited and the event is free.

PromiseFest is sponsored through partnerships with the Springfield City School District and the Clark County Department of Jobs and Families Services.

With the theme “Giving Back” with the focus of bringing the community together in a safe environment. More than 100 community volunteers and residents are joining in the effort.

“In previous years we had done everything ourselves and this year we’re bringing the community in and a lot of new resources and people,” said Raheem Uqdah, Springfield Promise Neighborhood Communications and Assessment VISTA.

Visitors will find live music from local talent and activities and games for kids and families. Food trucks will offer food including pizza and a hot dog, chips and water combo deal for a low price. Free popcorn and other complimentary treats will also be available.

Another area PromiseFest reaches out is with information and resources from various providers on issues including women’s health and child and family services.

The event will also see Springfield Promise Neighborhood debut PromiseCorps, a new program focused on helping preschool children be kindergarten ready and achieve grade-level literacy skills by third grade.

Promise will select 20 members to serve as literacy coaches at Lincoln, Perrin Woods, Fulton, and Kenwood Elementary Schools and support preschool children and their parents at the Rocking Horse Community Health Center.

Prior to PromiseFest, volunteers are needed to help clean the Fuller Garden from 8 a.m. to noon. All ages can help clean, carry large items and tend to the garden.

“PromiseFest is a great opportunity for kids and families to have a good time and be excited about the end of summer and the start of a new school year,” said Uqdah.


WANT TO GO?

What: PromiseFest

Where: Lincoln Elementary School, 1500 Tibbetts Ave., Springfield

When: Saturday, Sept. 9, noon to 4 p.m.

Admission: free

More info: 937-505-0330 or www.facebook.com/springfieldpromise/

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