The Waldo County YMCA and Waldo Community Action Partners (WCAP) are partnering to launch a new back to school tradition: School-a-Palooza on Sunday, August 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Waldo County YMCA. This free community event is designed to help Waldo County students head back to the classroom feeling prepared, supported and motivated.

Centered around this year’s theme, “Kindness Rocks,” School-a-Palooza celebrates the power of community while providing families with the tools they need for a successful start to the school year. School-aged children attending the event will receive a free backpack and have the opportunity to fill it with essential school supplies, while supplies last.

Throughout the afternoon, families will enjoy a carnival-style resource fair featuring local organizations, games, activities, and services, including:

  • A high-energy BMX freestyle stunt show by Dialed Action Sports beginning at 12:30 p.m., sponsored by Viking Lumber, Inc. Following the performance, riders will be available for photos and autographs.
  • A “Kindness Rocks” painting station hosted by Waterfall Arts where children can create and take home their own painted kindness rock.
  • Free back-to-school haircuts on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • School and family resource booths offering information and services to help students and families prepare for the school year.
  • A free hot dog lunch for everyone.

“Our goal is simple—we want every child in Waldo County to walk into their classroom feeling confident, cared for and ready to succeed,” said Russell Werkman, CEO of the Waldo County YMCA. “We hope the energy and inspiration of the BMX riders will encourage children to try something new when they get to school.”

Monica Pettengill, Director of Development and Community Services for WCAP, says the event sends an important message to local students.

“Every child deserves to know they matter and that their community is standing behind them,” said Pettengill. “Education is one of the greatest investments we can make in our future, and School-a-Palooza is our way of showing students and families that they are supported every step of the way.”

School-a-Palooza is organized through a partnership between the Waldo County YMCA and WCAP and is made possible by dozens of volunteers, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community partners committed to supporting Waldo County students.

The organizers extend special thanks to Viking Lumber, Inc. for sponsoring the Dialed Action Sports BMX stunt show and to Waterfall Arts for inspiring creativity and kindness by helping children create their own “Kindness Rocks.” Other major event sponsors include KSW Federal Credit Union and Mathew’s Brothers. Their generosity, along with the support of many community partners, helps make this inaugural annual celebration possible.