Family Night brings fun for kids of all ages

Families enjoyed a night of crafts, games, and food at Aspen Ridge Elementary School’s 14th annual Family Night Wednesday night.

Activities included kite making, gardening, and science projects.  There were exhibits from organizations such as the Department of Natural Resources, Marquette Food Co–op and law enforcement agencies.

Each year, the Fun Night has the same message: it takes a whole village to raise a child.

“When our families, our parents, our community members, our businesses and organizations, really become true partners with the schools, our children have such a greater success rate,” Donna Ballweber, the Child and Family Resource Coordinator for NICE Community Schools, said.

Ballweber expected two thousand people to come to Family Night.  In 14 years of the fun night, it continues to grow and families show support for the community.

“I don’t have to call people to come out and present, they call and say ‘Can we come out for Family Night?  We have a great idea’,” Ballweber said.  “They’re giving back to us, they’re getting involved, we in turn are here teaching our families about their community.”

A hot dog dinner was also provided for families.  The whole night was free, due to donations from organizations.