By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org
The Black Impact Collaborative (BIC) is hosting a second year of Roll.Bounce.GR, a free outdoor roller-skating event series. The back-to-school themed celebration is scheduled on Friday, Aug. 19, and Saturday, Aug. 20, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the North parking lot of New Hope Baptist Church located at 130 Delaware Street SW.
“As we do our work, we know that it is essential that we elevate Black Joy – things that inspire, supports and uplifts Black Culture. Roll.Bounce.GR provides Black Joy on every side with free admission and skate rental, along with several vendor tables that offer health, wellness and educational resources, as we give families one last hoorah before heading back to school,” said BIC Education Impact Area Co-Chair Tanell Hills.
“The BIC has been a tremendous partner during the past year in delivering educational materials to the community about COVID-19 and other health topics,” said Brian Hartl, director of the Center for Community Health Strategy at the Kent County Health Department.“They have been very responsive to the community’s needs and have hosted many creative events to connect people with helpful resources. This is a great opportunity for families to prepare kids for the return to school the following week while having a lot of fun.”
The event will also feature a DJ and food trucks. Those interested in reserving a time slot for skating with a group of 10 or more people can visit www.bicgr.com. There is no need to reserve a time slot for groups with less than 10 people. Community members with questions about the event can call 616-888-8411, ext. 506. If you have interest in participating as a vendor, email Lesa@bicgr.com.
The fun continues on Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022, when Endless Opportunities, a BIC partner, will be offering free haircuts, hairstyles, school supplies, food and games from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Baxter Community Center located at 935 Baxter SE. Endless Opportunities is a program that offers students in Middle and High school the chance to connect with and learn from professionals representing diverse career fields ranging from education, entrepreneurs, finance, government, medical, and technology. More information about the event can be found at www.endlessopportunities.org/events.