ACCESS was thrilled to host nearly 3,200 students and their families during our fifth annual Youth and Education Family Fun Day that was held on Thursday, June 11, 2015! The unprecedented crowd of attendees included mostly students from our 21st Century Learning Centers and high school turnaround programs. Participants enjoyed an array food, games, carnival rides, music, inflatables and more.
This annual free and festive celebration, which is unlike any that takes place in neighboring communities, honors the achievements of underserved students from various backgrounds who participate in ACCESS’ year-round, comprehensive academic enrichment programs. These programs benefit nearly two thousand students, including Arab Americans, African Americans, Latinos and Southeast Asians in grades K through 12, by helping them build core academic, life and leadership development skills. The programs also remove barriers to learning through individualized daily academic support and exposure to opportunities they would not otherwise have access to, such as career and college exploration, employability/internship opportunities, advocacy, and community engagement.
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Dearborn Mayor John O’Reilly and Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland were on hand to celebrate with the students and help pay tribute to longtime ACCESS friend, Dearborn Superintendent Brian Whiston, who was recently named by Governor Snyder as State Superintendent of Schools. ACCESS recognized Whiston for his accomplishment with an award, presented by ACCESS by Youth and Education Director Anisa Sahoubah.
Also joining in on the festivities was the Dearborn Police Department (DPD), who narrowly beat the Youth and Education high school teams in a basketball tournament, and members of the DPD’s Police Explorers program. Visits from famous characters, including Elsa, Olaf, Batman and Spiderman provided further excitement for kids and their families.
ACCESS extends its appreciation to everyone who made this year’s Family Fun Day possible, especially the Youth and Education staff, who worked incredibly hard to provide such a grand celebration for their students. We hope to see you again next year!
