The Kalamazoo Experiential Learning Center along with representatives from four Kalamazoo Neighborhood Associations are working together with the City of Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety and Kalamazoo Sheriff's Office to host neighborhood block parties.  These events, called Pop-up Block Parties, are hosted to create community engagement in the neighborhoods where police and youth can participate in an afternoon event that might result in new friendships and deepened connections. The event team of interns at KELC will work to implement the events. The events are only a couple hours long, and they include the program theme, arts and crafts, games, prizes, music, and food. 

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The events all depend on local businesses and nonprofits participating, and there are many opportunities to create meaningful programming and connections with kids and families. The purpose of this is to connect kids and families to community enrichment and to use place-making as a way to change the way in which we interact with our public spaces. 

 

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