YOUTH REVIVE GOOD OLD DAYS IN AMES, IOWA … STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY TIES
A group of young people, ages 10 – 17, took a page out of their local history book and treated their community to a good old fashion block party, with the help of the City of Ames, Iowa and AmeriCorps volunteers.
According to AmeriCorps’ Amanda Martin, the Tripp Street Block Party, was held this past Saturday, July 25 and was completely organized by about 12 young people. Over a month’s time they planned activities, went to businesses for donations, held a car wash to raise money and promoted the event. The City of Ames helped out and debuted its block party trailer called the Street ‘n Greet at the event. The trailer is equipped with everything you could ever wish for to put on a “mac daddy” party, including tables, chairs, a sound system, games, community information and more.
Amanda writes in her blog : The party went off without a hitch. Neighbors came out in full force and enjoyed a great feast, largely prepared by Brenda, the grandmother of one of the girls planning the event. Kids were hula hooping and jumping rope. The youth had a learning station for the younger kids, with books, coloring, educational games, and more. The snow cone machine was a hit with people of all ages. KeeKee led a great dance contest. The whole day was just so much fun.
Amanda concludes her blog with an inspiring observation, I was so impressed with all the work the youth put into organizing this event. If every group I worked with was so motivated and dedicated, I would be ecstatic. The group wants to continue to meet and do service projects, and I am excited to be a part of the creation of this new youth volunteer group in Ames.
Congratulations to everyone, especially the young people of Ames, Iowa, who worked on creating an event so successful that everyone wants to do it all over again! There’s no greater endorsement than that!
And, remember…Feed Your Good Dog, so your good dog always wins!
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