In a jam-packed Edward Dufrense Community Center in Luling, children and parents lined up for school supplies, games, breakout sessions and food for a fun-filled Youth Rally Saturday. “We just appreciate St. Charles Parish helping with the kids before they go to school to have a successful school year,” said April Conner, who brought her three children to the rally. “We appreciate them giving back to the community.”
Peggy Steward of Destrehan expressed the same gratitude.
“We can’t afford the supplies with a family member on disability so this makes a big difference,” Steward said.
She brought three children to the rally, as well as a niece and a nephew.
As a single parent, Michelle Tetlow, also of Destrehan, also praised the parish for holding a rally to benefit the families that need the help.
It’s the fourth youth rally held by the St. Charles Parish Department of Community Services and its Director Joan Diaz said the event exceeded their expectations.
“It’s been growing steadily over the past few years,” Diaz said. “We had a full turnout.
Describing the rally as a “party with a purpose,” she said the event helps kick off the school years with positive messages for children.
Centered on the theme, “What’s your Hashtag?” the rally focused on helping youth develop an awareness of the image they project in all of their communication, Diaz said. Activities promoted the development of a positive self-image and good choices in interactions with others.
The rally was initially held by Community Services, Alpha Daughters of Zion and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office. Later, the United Way of St. Charles merged its own school supplies giveaway with the rally. Blessed to be a Blessing also contributed to this year’s rally. [pullquote]“It’s been growing steadily over the past few years. We had a full turnout.”[/pullquote]
“The 4th Annual Youth Rally was a huge success,” said Kacy Kernan, director of Community Impact with the United Way of St. Charles.
United Way handed out school supplies to 750 children, and an estimated 2,500 people (including volunteers) attended the rally, Kernan said.
The rally opened up with musical performances by local students and a local drumline.
Local dignitaries in attendance included Sheriff Greg Champagne, St. Charles Parish President Larry Cochran, and St. Charles Parish Schools Superintendent, Felecia Gomez Walker.
Families in attendance were provided a meal, school bag and supplies, and fun activities, Kernan said.
“We had a game truck, outdoor games, Red Cross’ Pillowcase Project, snowball truck, face painting and a cupcake corner,” she said. “We also had a visit from the bloodmobile, Disney characters, ‘Costumed’ Saints Super fans, and Saints fan and ESPY Award winner, Jarrius “JJ” Robertson. End-of-the-day giveaways included tablets, iPads, and a laptop.”
Families also were given the opportunity to learn about the services available in the community. Representatives from the American Red Cross, Catholic Charities, St. Charles Community Health Center, various schools, and other organizations were on site to share their program and resources.
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