For the 4th consecutive year, the South Side Community Block Party celebrated families and residents living in the City of Hagerstown, with well over 2,000 community members in attendance. This year, Bester Community of Hope, a San Mar initiative, partnered with the City of Hagerstown to support their Fall Fest activity, as well as the annual tradition Porch Fest, making for a full day celebration in the City Park area of the South End.
The event was highlighted by diverse musical performances and audiences entertained by ACM Nominee The Swon Brothers from Oklahoma, and Washington D.C. favorites The Chuck Brown Band. Forty community resource vendors were onsite to provide important information and linkages to local opportunities, including a free clothing giveaway, and free food tasting plates. There were endless free games and activities for families including paddle boat rides from River & Trail Outfitters, laser tag from XP Laser Sport, an obstacle course from Tiger Rock Martial Arts Academy, with games by the United States Army; but the center of activity at City Park was the brand new playground opened by the City of Hagerstown just in time for the day.
This event was made possible due to the support and commitment to strong families and supportive communities by the Washington County Department of Social Services, Alice Virginia & David W. Fletcher Foundation, and Casey Family Programs.
For media coverage of the event see more here: Herald Mail Article
Photography courtesy of Kevin Gilbert
