Brentwood Enjoys Saturday Explosion

Success is spelled "Saturday Explosion" at Brentwood Branch Library. Denise Kirkland, Literacy Program Specialist, hosted a partnership of nonprofits and volunteers at Brentwood Branch, May 21, to benefit its community members. Brentwood Branch staff shared their lunch hour with participating nonprofit representatives, and they sent hot dogs to another branch library as an act of good will.

Community agency tables were set up in Brentwood Library’s parking lot where hot dogs, chips, lemonade and snow cones were served, and all enjoyed the DJ, Grill Master, who performed an impressive dance, including back flips and hand stands. Some enjoyed dancing in the streets. Lea's Place and The Well provided stations for crafts and children's games.

Most of Brentwood’s second floor became "Share Shop" where collected clothing—infant to adult sizes—was available for attendees. Several families left with a bag full of items for each family member. Melodie Dove with United Way sorted all the donations and was in charge of display. A grandmother and grand-daughter volunteered to pass out clothes. The day before the event, Kathy Suber used Lea's Place membership in Dignity U Wear to acquire brand new clothing and underwear. The underwear was packaged in sets and tied with a curly ribbon.

The Share Shop also gave people an opportunity to escape the heat and hear of coming events, including the Father-Daughter Dance (August 6), character building classes (July 23), etiquette and ball room dancing classes (July 30), as well as a slumber party for girls in the neighborhood, ages 4-16 (June 23).

Every child who attended was given a book and a "matching" stuffed animal. They were also encouraged to take a video or game (Lea's Place donations) to enjoy.

There were drawings for several door prizes; they were so popular, other "vendors" (ELC, Magnolia Project, The Well, United Way, Lea's Place and others) wanted to be included!

The total cost of this event was $30 for the DJ. All food, giveaways, prizes, supplies and equipment were donated, and over 100 community residents were served.

JPL and its "partners" solicited community engagement for upcoming events. Thus far, they have secured at least two new sponsors for outfitting girls for the Father-Daughter Dance and several girls have signed up to attend.

While most of the planning and organizing was done by JPL’s Denise Thomas, Kathy Suber (Lea’s Place), Melodie Dove (United Way), Nancy Dreicer (Florida Department of Children & Families), and the Brentwood community members were very involved.

Ms. Thomas also visited apartment complexes and community organizations to seek participation in this very successful community event.

All of you deserve a standing ovation.