Parents and families of students enrolled in Callaway Elementary School benefitted from a family fair on March 18 where they connected with community resources and dialogued with school leaders. The event was organized by Community School Coordinator Katelyn Queen, who acts as a liaison between the school and the community for programs and services that are school-based or school-linked.
“Families don’t always realize they are within walking distance of so many resources right here in the community,” said Katelyn about the impetus for the event. “These are resources we could all benefit from to confront real-life issues we’re experiencing.”
Katelyn collaborated with local institutions to offer four breakout sessions during the fair:
The President of Garrison-Hill Community Association gave an overview of town hall meetings and community happenings including an upcoming Family Earth Day on April 10.
M&T Bank offered saving and budgeting tips in the face of the pandemic.
March Funeral Home reviewed the benefits and options around life insurance policies.
A student wholeness specialist from Baltimore City Public Schools covered social and emotional learning (SEL) practices & mindfulness techniques to help manage day-to-day stressors.
To encourage participation, the event featured raffle items including a self-care package, a bicycle and a school uniform. Katelyn aims to host a family fair monthly and has plans for an April event centering on college and career readiness and a May health fair.
If your organization is interested in participating in a future fair, reach out to Katelyn at kqueen@bgcmetrobaltimore.org.