Gloucester Education Foundation (GEF) announced today that their popular annual event “Power of Play” returns March 24th, with a dynamic slate of hands-on, screen-free, play-based activities for kids of all ages. GEF is excited to continue to offer this opportunity for Gloucester families to connect, unplug, and play together.
Founded in 2016 by GEF and an enthusiastic group of community volunteers, Power of Play quickly became a favorite annual event among Gloucester families. Over 1,000 children, parents, grandparents, and caregivers attended last year’s event, with over 100 community and student volunteers.
“Last year, as a volunteer, I saw firsthand the magic of Power of Play and I am truly honored to be taking on the role as event chair this year.” said Power of Play event chair, Ingrid Conti. “Children are at the heart of this event, and I’m excited to lead efforts in creating an unforgettable experience that ignites their passion for learning and empowerment through play.”
The event featured six different play modalities for families to explore – GAMES, CREATE, BUILD, TOUCH, MOVE and DISCOVER. Adult volunteers, student volunteers, and community partners will be leading activities across the six areas, including GMGI, Pathways for Children, Seaside Circus, Backyard Growers, the Cape Ann YMCA, Sawyer Free Library, Kindred Gardens, MAGMA, and the Docksiders.
This year’s event will feature many popular Power of Play activities from last year, like art projects, live music musical chairs, fort-building, lawn games, toy car races, an obstacle course, sand play and capoeira. New activities will include a silent dance party, parachute games, an arctic exploration, and life-size Candy Land.
“It’s just a real coming together of the city and the community,” said Ben Lummis, Gloucester Public School District’s superintendent. “And to do it across generations with nothing but smiles and laughter; it really brings people together. It’s a great day!”
Power of Play is hosted by GEF and made possible by a committee of active volunteers, with funding from Cape Ann Savings Bank, Sawyer Free Library, Seashore Comfort Solutions, and Medeiros General Construction Inc. Cape Ann Savings Bank is the founding and lead sponsor, and also coordinates the concession stand at the event with proceeds benefiting GEF.
GEF drives innovation, inspires creativity, expands student opportunities, and empowers educators to strengthen teaching and learning in the Gloucester Public Schools. Since 2005, GEF has raised over $9.5M in donations and grants, supporting new and innovative programs for all ages throughout the Gloucester schools. Learn more at www.thinkthebest.org – information is available in English, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Arabic.
EVENT DETAILS:
What: A day of hands-on, screen-free play for all ages, hosted by Gloucester Education Foundation and run by a powerhouse team of community and student volunteers! Games, art projects, fort-building, science experiments, sensory play, and so much more.
When: Sunday, March 24, 2024 11am – 3pm
Where: Gloucester High School Field House, 32 Leslie O. Johnson Rd., Gloucester, MA 01930
Good Morning Gloucester 