Russell Woods hub manager Donna Lawson was dressed head to toe in Pete the Cat gear – Pete the Cat earrings, hat, shirt, and even a pair of vibrant shoes inspired by James Dean’s feline character. Donna and Russell Woods coordinator Alana had invited partners Backpack Mental Health and the Problem Pregnancy Center to set up tables in the living room to share their valuable resources with the community. Throughout the hub, volunteers helped set up a coloring area with Pete the Cat themed crafts, a photo backdrop, and music to energize the event. As families arrived, Donna fired up the griddle, cooking burgers and hot dogs for the participating families.
As children colored pictures of Pete the Cat playing guitar and trying on his new shoes, two boys from DTC read Pete the Cat stories, including the namesake of the event Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes. Eventually, the tempting smells of the food downstairs brought an end to the coloring and read alouds. Families enjoyed a classic barbeque spread before a cupcake surprise courtesy of Donna’s neighbor. While eating, the children peeked out the dining room window, looking into the backyard at the tables full og backpacks, trying to decide which color bag they wanted. As the evening came to a close, families chose a title from an assortment of Pete the Cat books and grabbed a backpack full of school essentials. A round of hugs and “see you laters” capped off the week as hub staff reset the furniture and cleaned the kitchen. Another lively and successful event at Brilliant Detroit’s Russell Woods Hub.
If you are interested in building a love for literacy in youth throughout Detroit, consider purchasing a book from our wishlist or volunteering as a Literacy Buddy.