Garrettsville – On Sunday, August 22nd from 4 – 6 pm at the JAG Campus, families are invited to a fun night of carnival games, free food, and help to get ready for the coming school year. The first of what organizers hope will be an annual event will take place on the front lawn of the school.
“This event is open to absolutely everyone,” Chris Schaefer, JAG administrative assistant, and one of the event organizers shared. “It’s really been a community outreach. We’ve gotten support from the food cupboard, which provided Gatorade and cereal, as well as People Tree, which donated school supplies.” She noted that the Hiram Kiwanis donated $200 for the purchase of socks and underwear, while community members have donated new and gently used clothing for the event.
The event will provide students with free school supplies and free haircuts. Brian Morgan and Chris McCarty from the Barber of G’Ville will provide haircuts for boys, while Rachelle Yarnell from Facet Salon will provide services for girls. Mr. Rado provided the use of the Elementary School field day games to lend a carnival atmosphere, and the first 200 families will receive swag bags. In addition, a selection of new or lightly used clothing will be available to prepare kids for the new year.
At this event, families will also learn more about a series of monthly gatherings at the YMCA that will include dinner, childcare, and brief presentations aimed to help support families and their students throughout the school year. Topics for the 20-minute chats include navigating the JAG School District, the importance of routines, mental health, single parenting, and dealing with homework battles, just to name a few.
“Research shows that kids who are supported by their community do better in school, shared JAG teacher Bethany Maresh. “How our kids succeed affects us all.” Maresh continued, “Our goal was to bring everyone together to help prepare our kids for an awesome start to the school year.” The event will also share information about the wide range of resources and services available to families, “There’s so much available that people just don’t know about,” Schaefer added.
The event is made possible through support from the Hiram Community Trust, as well as donations from local businesses, organizations, and individuals. Donations of supplies and new or gently used clothing can be placed in drop boxes at both the GMS and GHS entrances and at Sky Lanes bowling alley.
And throughout the year, G-men University will be selling cotton candy at football and basketball games to raise money for future programming. Your purchases will directly support G-Men University programs and supplies, and is made possible through a machine provided by Missy Pfile from Playland Amusement.
For more information or to make a financial donation for G-Men University, contact Chris Schaefer at (330) 839-3074 or cschaefer@jagschools.org.
