Back to School Block Party

This year’s block party was a huge success.  Hotdogs on the grill. Incredible entertainment from local artists.  Big bouncer toys including a humungous 75 ft. obstacle course.  Social service agencies including the White Center CDA, SWYFS, Child Care Resources, The Way Out, Mount View Elementary PTA, Open Arms all present to connect with people in the neighborhood and lend volunteer support making sure that this event was useful, relevant, fun and efficient.  Churches like The Cross Church and Mount View Presbyterian bringing resources and volunteers to set up and take down and do EVERYTHING in between.   Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission there, as always, to help us be Christ’s hands, feet and heart because they share in our desire to serve White Center children, youth and families with excellence.  People and youth from the neighborhood willing to loan their equipment and talent and muscle and heart to the Party.  And finally, World Vision; supplying 1350 backpacks filled with school supplies and 500 bags filled with personal care items, bags valued at no less than $50 each, for our families, loving kids with us in this very significant and meaningful way.  Thank you seems inadequate but all of us at the YES Foundation feel a profound sense of gratitude as we consider the privilege it is to work hand in hand with our partners to pull off a celebration like the one we had on 12th Ave on Friday!

Pat Thompson

**Pictures from the Block Party are on the photos page. Pictures by Keilah Fanene, Pat Thompson and Tom Slattery