By Ricky Richardson | Contributing Writer
Los Angeles, CA- Parents are probably wondering how the summer season went by so fast. It seems like only yesterday that students were singing “School is Out for the Summer.”
The excitement of another school year is upon us. Children have returned to campus to continue their educational journey.
Excitement was in the air as hundreds of parents and their children attended the 21st Annual Back2School Community Health Resource Fair, presented by Special Needs Network, Inc. and Councilwoman Heather Hutt (CD-10). This highly anticipated event was held at the Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex, 5001 W. Obama Boulevard (former Rodeo Road).
This free event helped families prepare for the new school year by connecting them with supportive community resources and engaging, family-friendly activities.
Today’s festivities were organized by Areva Martin, Civil Rights Attorney and Child Advocate and partnership with Special Needs Network, Inc. Areva is Founder and President of Special Needs Network, Inc. (SNN), a nonprofit grassroots organization, and played a pivotal role in organizing the event. Special Needs Network Inc. focuses on advocating for the rights of underserved and marginalized communities, recognizing the intersectionality of individuals with disabilities in the broader context of civil rights and racial justice. This event was about celebrating learning, empowerment, and community unity.
I was fortunate to attend this year’s iteration of the Back2School Community Health Resource Fair, which offered a variety of supportive services and activities aimed at enhancing the well-being of attendees.
Laughter permeated throughout the grounds of the event. It does my heart good to see the smiles of kids and their parents strolling around the park. Everyone was able to access the necessary tools and supportive resources for students to start their academic and educational journey right with confidence.
The program for the day consisted of free backpacks, school supplies, face painting, arts and crafts, bounce house, health and dental screenings, free snacks and lots of water on this hot day, free fresh fruits and vegetables, haircuts, manicures and other beauty salon treatments for the young ladies, free food and entertainment. Interactive, engaging games consisted of soccer and baseball techniques.
Assemblyman Isaac G. Bryan (California Assembly District 55) and Los Angeles City Councilwoman Heather Hutt (District 10) were a couple of distinguished guests in attendance to show support for this fantabulous event!
Derrius served as emcee, providing important announcements and facilitating the ability for guests to walk away with some amazing door prizes. DJ Honey was on deck providing an eclectic soundtrack to enhance the festivities.
Chanel N. Grant, Autism Mom, Advocate, Author, MBA & M. ED, Founder of M.O.D.Y. Manifesto, was on site for a book reading. Ms. Grant is the author of Michael Goes to School, Carla’s Brilliant Brain, and James Finds His Voice.
The crowd and I were treated to the soulful sounds of The D Four. This tight band is making a name for themselves in Southern California and beyond. They wowed an international crowd of soccer fans during a stellar performance at the historic Union Station for the FIFA World Cup Fan Zone or Fan Fest.
“The success of the Back2School Community Health Resource Fair served as a beacon of hope, bringing together and creating opportunities for all. It showcased the strength of community collaboration and underscored the importance of early intervention for equity and empowerment. This annual gathering continues to be a source of inspiration, reminding everyone that positive change is possible when communities unite for a common purpose.” (Source: Special Needs Network, Inc.)
Special Needs Network Inc. (SNN) is a nonprofit grassroots organization responding to the crisis of autism and other developmental disabilities in underserved communities. SNN recognizes the intersectionality of individuals with disabilities and that their fight for disability rights is inextricably tied to the fight for racial justice and civil rights of all people.
Please feel free to reach out to Special Needs Network, Inc. if you or someone you know might be interested in more information about the organization and the wonderful services that they provide. You can also reach out and connect with the Special Needs Network, Inc. on Facebook and Instagram to find out about upcoming events. https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__snnla.org&d=DwIF-g&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=H87LzY2vqthYlOFokKtR2g&m=NSILOMGh8mQOqHhqXh5ufuYR6Df5Ngl6tuyfoVtAWMedyC0hs8LKHyL8KcNTqjPc&s=ckbquAy116ShK-QNxM4zMFTmNM-q82v787qx9j04xLc&e=