The Intergenerational Center exploded with activity during the recent SAFIR Family Fun Fest, hosted by the Substance Awareness Center, which is the lead agency of the Substance Abuse Free Indian River Coalition, and the Indian River County School District.
As music played in the background, nearly 1,000 people made their way from one booth to another during a day filled with activities for the whole family.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Indian River County, Environmental Learning Center, Girls Scouts, Hart & Soul youth program, Mental Health Association, SAFIR, Suncoast Mental Health, Treasure Coast Girls Coalition, the Learning Alliance, Treasure Coast Community Health, United Against Poverty, Vero Beach Rowing and Youth Guidance were among the nonprofits represented, alongside the Sebastian Police Department, Indian River County Sheriff’s Office and IRCSO Explorer program.
Students from the Indian River State College Capstone class assisted in marketing the event, donated a bounce house, and also took pictures at the event.
The various nonprofits provided games and activities for the children and, while the little ones were kept occupied, adults shopped at vendor booths and collected information about the services the nonprofits provide to the community. As they visited each booth, attendees could collect stamps on bingo cards for a chance to win a variety of donated prizes.
There was also free popcorn, cotton candy, donut holes, snow cones and hot dogs and, for those with a more discerning palate, a food truck provided additional options for purchase.
“I wanted people to have a fun, free event for families to bring the community together,” said Michele Buldo, SAFIR coalition director, who anticipates it becoming an annual event.
“This supports SAFIR’s mission. Our goal is to reduce substance use, but also to look at what’s in the community and give protection to families and youth. This was a way to show that there is a lot out there for you, and we’re all together. I wanted people to feel connected to the community.”
SAFIR collaborates with community partners to reduce the use of alcohol, drugs and cigarettes by local youths through education, support, collaboration and action.
Buldo explained they disseminate education through such activities as monthly Friday Night Done Right cooking classes, bingo and other events organized to offer “alternative activities for youth to have fun without the need for drugs and alcohol.”
Recently, SAFIR organized a basketball game pitting local law enforcement against teen players to encourage positive connections.
Past substance abuse workshop topics have included underage drinking, prescription drug and marijuana use, and sustainability, and Buldo is currently planning a drug summit.
In a statement, Cristen Maddux, SDIRC public information officer, wrote that the event was a way to give back to parents and families in an engaging manner, where they could also learn about the local resources and support available to them.
For more information, visit safirc.org.
Photos by Kaila Jones
