Babypalooza is more than just a baby shower; it’s a fun-filled gathering celebrating the youngest members of our community. This annual event, hosted by Bester Community of Hope, was held on Saturday, April 6, 2024. Bester Elementary School welcomed approximately 186 families to the Whimsical Woodland themed event.
As families entered the school they were greeted by the opportunity to visit the Early Learning Carnival. Here, 5 local early intervention agencies created engaging stations for families to visit. Each station featured games and activities allowing children to participate in age-appropriate developmental tasks that included water play, sensory bin exploration, as well as fine and gross motor skill movement exercises.
Babypalooza guests were also encouraged to visit the woodland themed photo booth where Bester Community of Hope volunteers provided attendees with a family photo memento to take home.
As families transitioned from the Early Learning Carnival and made their way to the gymnasium, they were encouraged to visit the Parent Resiliency room. Realizing the importance of self-care in creating and supporting strong caregivers, the Director and staff from the Jack E. Barr Center for Well Being, curated a calm space where families could color, listen to relaxing music, enjoy snacks and be provided with mental health and meditation resources.
When event guests finally reached the gymnasium, a sea of community resource vendors greeted them, eagerly waiting to provide critical and vital supports. Over 40 vendors were available for families to speak with in order to learn about places to go and how to access needed services, all aimed at expanding a family’s network of supports. Bonnie Downing, our community partner with Carefirst Community Health plan of Maryland shared, “I am always glad to be welcomed at this event. This year’s turnout was the best I’ve seen in a few years. I was happy to connect with so many people. I’ll definitely be back next year!”
Of course no celebration would be complete without great food and prizes! A huge thank you to Aetna Better Health and Washington County Grant management who graciously sponsored this years boxed lunch meal from Chick Fil A. Community partners and Bester Community of Hope also combined to provide 11 prize bundles that were raffled off at the conclusion of the event. Every adult in attendance received 3 raffle tickets that allowed them a chance to try their luck at winning one of the amazing prizes offered.
For families with young children and parents to be, Babypalooza offered an afternoon focused on celebrating life, love and the incredible journey that is parenthood. The event also served as a reminder to families that they are not alone on this journey; rather they have an entire community here to support and cheer them on each step of the way. Community resident Nadine Thompson summed it up best when she said, “It’s amazing to see so many people coming together to celebrate and support young families in this community. I really enjoy this event and this year’s was one of the best!”
Bester Community of Hope provides support and opportunities for families in the South End of Hagerstown through the partnership and funding by Washington County Department of Social Services and the Alice Virginia and David W. Fletcher Foundation. If you are interested in learning more about our efforts please contact us at: 240-513-6370 or find us at www.besterhope.org.
