On a scorching Saturday, July 20th, Rocky Mountain PBS's Kidsfest 2024 in Northglenn was the place to be for families looking for fun and excitement. Among the many attractions, and right next to the lively Daniel Tiger dance party stage, the International Rescue Committee in Denver hosted a vibrant booth creating a hub of activity and joy.

"We wanted to do something meaningful, yet  it had to be practical given that around 6000 people were expected. So we opted for encouraging the children and their caregivers to participate in creating a massive puzzle titled "We all fit together". We felt it adequately celebrated the beauty in diversity we believe in at the IRC in Denver. Each puzzle piece, decorated by the individual participants - some as little as one year old - became a part of the much larger picture that symbolizes unity and belonging,"

explains Hanna Simmons, Development Manager at the IRC in Denver.

"It was crazy hot,"

adds Alyah Fadel, the IRC in Denver's Financial Capability Specialist. 

"We handed out hundreds of colorful popsicles all day to ensure our little guests stayed cool and comfortable. Not only where the icy treats a huge hit and provided much-needed relief from the sun, they also added to the festive atmosphere."

With  Daniel Tiger, Nature Cat, Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Buddy from Dinosaur Train providing a constant source of entertainment, the children were bouncing in their chairs and singing along to their favorite tunes while crafting.

"The proximity of the stage to the IRC in Denver booth meant that our message of inclusion and community reached a wide audience as so many people stopped by,"

says Hanna Simmons.

 

Throughout the day, IRC in Denver staff and youth volunteers engaged with families, sharing information about their programs and the importance of fostering a welcoming community. The event was a perfect blend of fun and education, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

"My favorite part of the craft was that I could glue the craziest colored string to the faces I drew. I gave my people red, blue, and even bright rainbow hair," 

reminisces Cara, 6 years old.

As the day drew to a close, the sense of accomplishment was evident. The IRC in Denver had successfully created a space where children and their caregivers could celebrate diversity, learn about the importance of community, and simply enjoy a day of fun in the sun.

"The Rocky Mountain PBS's Kidsfest was a spectacular event that brought families together for a day filled with fun, learning, and community spirit,"

says Sky (13), youth volunteer at the IRC in Denver, and Alyah concludes:

The IRC in Denver looks forward to participating in more community events like this, continuing to spread their message of inclusion and support."

The IRC in Denver thanks Rocky Mountain PBS and everyone who stooped their booth to have fun!

https://www.rescue.org/announcement/program-spotlight-tutoring-together