The second annual Community Extravaganza is set to take place on March 16, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grace Fellowship Church, located at 2400 St. Johns Ave. in Palatka, Florida. Organized by Father Robert Massey, the pastor of St. John the Divine Charismatic Episcopal Church, this event aims to connect residents of Putnam County with a range of local resources and services.
More than 30 organizations will participate, providing information on various services available to the community, including support for children, veterans, and the elderly. Father Massey emphasized the importance of the event in fostering community connections, stating, “I cannot tell you what the benefits are that people will get, but I know if they come, they’ll get something out of it.”
Community Engagement and Support
Among the organizations attending are the Putnam County School District’s pre-K program coordinator, Feed the Need of Putnam County, veterans from the American Legion Bert Hodge Post 45 Auxiliary, and the Arc of Putnam County. These groups aim to offer essential services and assistance to residents in need.
Father Massey noted that the event is not solely his initiative but reflects a broader mission, saying, “This is God’s mission, that’s important to remember. He wants people in this community to feel secure by getting help physically, mentally, spiritually, however they need it.” He believes that addressing basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and clothing allows individuals to pursue improvement in their lives.
The pastor expressed a desire for residents to feel empowered, adding, “We want them to have the freedom of mind like, ‘There is someone I can call to help me with this.’” This sentiment resonates with many community members who may feel overwhelmed by their circumstances.
Family-Friendly Activities and Community Growth
The Community Extravaganza is designed to be a family-friendly event, featuring games for children, live musical entertainment, and complimentary hot dogs, along with food vendors offering additional snacks and meals. This inclusive atmosphere aims to attract families and individuals alike, fostering a sense of community engagement.
Debbie Brooks, the secretary for Grace Fellowship, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about available resources. She reflected on her own experience during last year’s event, stating, “I didn’t realize until I met some of them, and it was an eye-opener for me.” Her comments underline the potential for increased community awareness and access to crucial services.
As of Thursday, March 14, more than 30 organizations had confirmed their attendance, with additional requests coming in as the event approached. Father Massey expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming gathering, emphasizing its purpose as an opportunity for people to come together and support one another.
He acknowledged the potential for growth in Palatka while urging local residents to care for each other. “I’m all about success,” he stated. “When I was a teacher, that was my No. 1 message to students, ‘be successful.’ But the only way to be successful is to know your possibilities and then take advantage of them.”
The Community Extravaganza promises to be more than just an event; it aims to be a catalyst for positive change, encouraging residents to seek out the resources they need to lead happier and more fulfilled lives.
