Written by Kayla Fleming
It’s often said that the strength of a community is found in the opportunities it creates for its people—especially its youth. Building on that idea, CASA of Walker County hosted their 3rd annual Kids Expo, bringing together organizations, families, and volunteers for a day centered around connection, learning and supporting youth.
The event was organized by Laura Green, Director of Development for CASA of Walker County. Situated in the parking lot and grounds of Huntsville Church of Christ, organizations from across the community set up tents, activities, food, and entertainment, while mascots such as the Chick-fil-A Cow, the EASCO Duck, and HEB Buddy roamed the grounds.
Central to everything were a series of featured programs, beginning with a heart-melting puppet show. Families could enjoy the synchronized dances of the Huntsville ISD Drill Team, the tumbles and flips from the Pocket Aces Cheer Company, the curated styles of the Buck & Bo Fashion show and the swirling bright colors of the Ballet Folklorico.
Informational booths included emergency services, the City of Huntsville’s Parks & Recreation (Good to see you Michelle and Joseph!), the ever-present Rob Hipp, Huntsville Memorial Hospital (good to see you Brian Goldgar!), one of our favorite bakeries (Yolk and On Bakery), Cenikor (good to see you salvador Favela!), Sam Houston State University (Good to see you Courtney Chastine!), rock wall climbing, food options, and many more.
LEAP brought together 14 of the volunteers, all positioned in the Kid’s Zone, where many of the games and activities for children were housed.
There was a mini-train, run by our Laura Green’s very own Glenngineer; a foam party by the playground in the back; three bouncy-houses for different ages; face painting; archery and a photobooth. Towards the back, there was a petting zoo offering miniature pony rides and families the chance to interact with animals such as bunnies, pigs, ducks, a llama, goats, and a tortoise. Elliot’s Jewelers sponsored a Balloon Artist and a “sketches to sparkle” Jewelry design contest for the ages 5-12.
And while we were at it, Professor Yawn decided to climb the firetruck ladder…
…for some aerial shots.
To end this wonderful event, CASA did drawings for four bicycles, making some families very happy.
As the day wrapped up, the volunteers posed for a group photo, with the train as a backdrop, and we all got our first ride on a train!
We and many of the other volunteers helped take down the event, moving chairs and tables and such, and we were able to call it a day’s work. And while volunteering involves work, it was also a lot of fun, made even more satisfying by knowing that many families had a good time at an event that is rapidly becoming a Huntsville tradition.
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