The Joliet Unity Movement is gearing up for its much-anticipated Annual 815 Youth Day on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Nowell Park.
The Annual 815 Youth Day has become a cherished end-of-the-summer tradition for youth and families in the greater Joliet area. This year, the Joliet Unity Movement is calling on everyone in the community to come and join them as they celebrate the youth and showcase their incredible talents throughout the day.
“After a hiatus due to park renovations, the Joliet Unity Movement is thrilled to bring the celebration back to its roots,” says Willie Ervins, President of the Joliet Unity Movement.
After renovations, the park is now home to the brand-new Kobe and Giana Bryant Basketball court, where a 3-vs-3 basketball tournament will take place. Other fun activities include a tug-of-war contest, a talent show, and a Double Dutch contest with tons of prizes and giveaways for contest participants and those in attendance. The 1-day event will also have community resources, a homeownership seminar, and financial literacy courses.
The Joliet Unity Movement began In 2014 when a group of community members came together to host the Children’s Day of Talent & Growth. This one-day event empowered young people by showcasing them as artists, performers, athletes, and VIP guests.
Over the next several years, the Unity Movement, a not-for-profit grassroots organization, has continued its mission, organizing motivational, recreational, and educational events and programs for youth, young adults, and families in the Joliet Area.
Among their notable achievements are scholarships, family trips, educational presentations, mentoring, youth-led summits, transportation assistance, mediation, and community engagement, all accomplished through the dedicated efforts of staff and volunteers.
“As we approach our 10th year,” Ervins explains, “we take great pride in the message that we conveyed throughout our years in our communities, and that’s to Stop the Violence.”
The 815 Youth Day celebration will take place Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Nowell Park. Volunteer & donation opportunities are still available. For more information, contact 815.324.2499 or email movement@joliet815.com
“We’ll like to thank our premier sponsor D’Arcy Buick GMC for helping to make this and many of our events successful,” Ervins says appreciatively. “And like our late board member, Loretta Westbrooks would always say with high energy and excitement, ‘Bring the kids out to have a great time with Unity 815.”
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