Annual Back to School fair on Belle Isle

Youth Connection hosting free event packed full of games, giveaways for parents, students

DETROIT – Kick-off the new school year at the 12th Annual After-School, Back-to-School and Off-to-College Fair Saturday, August 17th.

The Youth Connection is hosting the event which will run from noon until 4 p.m. at the Casino on Belle Isle.

Parents and school children are encouraged to attend to mingle with elected officials and explore after-school programs and non-profit youth-serving agencies.

The Youth Connection will be giving out free backpacks, school supplies, books, and bike helmets for youth and free food baskets for families while supplies last.

Youth ages 18 and under will also receive a free lunch as part of the event.

In addition to the fun and games, several organizations will be on hand to give parents one-stop shopping for all of their school supply needs.

  • The Kohl's Injury Prevention Program at Children's Hospital will be on hand to distribute free youth bike helmets and information about child safety.
  • The Institute for Population Health will be providing child immunizations and other health-related information for families inside the casino.
  • The Fair will also feature college admissions personnel on-site for older youth.

The event is free to the public and will also feature enrollment options for after-school program providers and family entertainment.

Love Detroit Youth II is hosting a 5K walk before the Fair begins at 11 am to raise awareness about substance abuse prevention in Detroit.

Studies show that after-school programs contribute significantly to overall development and education of our children. Yet, parents have indicated that they are unaware of the after-school programs available in their neighborhoods.

The 12th Annual After-School Fair is geared to increase parental awareness of a wide variety of programs for children and youth.