‘A community we build together’

FITCHBURG — Last weekend’s Fitchburg Impact Block Party attracted hundreds of community members to the festive event that was the definition of working together for the greater good.

All kinds of local organizations, groups, and people participated in the Aug. 9 event held at Riverfront Park that featured free backpacks and haircuts, a bouncy house, face painting, a DJ and karaoke, food and ice cream, and more. Fitchburg Youth Football and Cheer, Fitchburg Public Schools (FPS), Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg Art Museum (FAM), and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Mass & Metrowest all had tables set up, among others, and the energy overall was wholesome and fun.

FPS Director of Enrollment and Family Engagement Luisa Fernandez reported that they handed out over 500 backpacks and 300 hamburgers along with clothing, free haircuts and braiding, and numerous resources. Bubbles floated through the air and attendees enjoyed checking out the Fitchburg Police Department UTV that they use to access areas of the city that police cruisers cannot get to.

“Sunday was one of the most special days I have experienced since I started working in this wonderful district,” Fernandez shared following the collaborative party. “Seeing the community where I live and where I am raising my children come together for a fun, free event for families was incredibly emotional and meaningful to me.”

She went on to say that she is “so grateful for the opportunity to partner with amazing organizations” including Making Opportunity Count, LUK, NewVue Communities, Coff33 Corp, City United Church, FAM, “and so many others who helped make this day possible.”

Fernandez disclosed that many people were involved in the planning of the event that went off without a hitch.

“I am especially thankful for the opportunity to organize this event with the incredible support of Ama Baker and Marilyn Velazquez,” she said of the two women who helped the most. “Together we were able to provide our students and families with free backpacks, haircuts, braids, clothing, face painting, a petting zoo, basketball, a bubble station, sidewalk chalk, karaoke, delicious food, and free ice cream.”

Six-year-old city resident Ruelle Robineau and many others of all ages enjoyed painting at the FAM table, and everyone was invited to put their touch on a community art project there. Children sang songs at the karaoke station and decorated the steps at the park with colorful chalk drawings, a symbol of the unity felt by the community that day.

Velazquez is a member of the Renacer Massachusetts Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church, which recently relocated to 515 Main St. in the heart of the city. She relayed that they “are incredibly thankful for the opportunity to partner with the organizations throughout the City of Fitchburg to serve our community.”

“Together, we are making a meaningful impact on some of the most vulnerable members of our city — our children,” Velazquez shared. “Our goal was to provide every child with a day filled with joy, encouragement, and hope. For many of these children, these opportunities might not otherwise be available, making them all the more meaningful.

“Beyond meeting practical needs, we are grateful for the opportunity to be a source of spiritual encouragement and support within our community,” she continued. “We believe that investing in the lives of children today helps build a stronger, more compassionate city tomorrow. It is our hope to continue partnering with our community and making a lasting, positive impact in Fitchburg for years to come.”

Montachusett Community Branch YMCA Member Experience and Program Impact Director Ama Baker echoed her sentiments, saying the YMCA was thrilled to partner with FPS and the church “to bring another successful community event to our city.”

“This event was a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, connect with local organizations, build positive relationships, and prepare for a successful school year,” the city event planner said. “We are proud to be part of an event that strengthens our community and supports Fitchburg families. We look forward to another great event and to welcoming families as we get ready for the new school year.”

Fernandez said that for her personally, beyond being able to offer all the activities and resources, what touched her the most “was seeing the happiness on our families’ faces.”

“You could truly feel the sense of belonging, pride, and community throughout the entire event. This was a day I will carry in my heart forever,” she expressed. “Seeing our community receive this event for the first time with so much love and enthusiasm was truly beautiful.

“I am looking forward to making this event a tradition and creating another reason for our families to come together and celebrate what makes Fitchburg such a special community. Fitchburg is more than a place where we live — it is a community we build together.”