MANSFIELD, Ohio — “We know that for the children in the area there’s not a lot of activities going on; and Monday through Thursday, by the time Friday hits, they want something exciting, said Brigitte Coles, WMFD news anchor and a Mend Mansfield Coalition founding leader.
“So what we’re doing, with the City of Mansfield and Mend Mansfield, we are putting on what we call the Safe Summer Friday nights.”
The first Safe Summer Friday Night is this Friday, July 10 from 6-8:30 p.m. at Johns Park. A balloon lift-off in honor of victims of drugs and violence will be held during the event.
There will also be a DJ and fun activities, some with participation from the Mansfield Police Athletic League. Motivational speakers will talk about their community and be available to speak with community members.
“We’re not just focusing on the youth; we’re trying to focus on the whole entire community. We want these events to become a place of conversation and hope,” Coles said. “We also want to get people out of their homes and connect them. It will be a block party atmosphere but it’s going to be safe.
“It shows that we’re not only addressing the issue of violence in the community, we’re also addressing other needs,” said Coles, referring to the Mend Mansfield Coalition’s 2,000 Shoes in 2 Months campaign.
The remark can also apply to Safe SummerFriday Nights.
Ensuing Safe Night Friday Nights will held in various other city parks. The calendar includes July 17 at Prospect Park July 24 at North Lake Park, July 31 at Prospect Park, and August 5 at North Lake Park.
Jeff Angelini and DJ Flip will DJ the Safe Night Friday Night events and the community is encouraged to bring their families for a free evening of fun.
