On a gorgeous summer day in June, the Penny Lane Summer Carnival at Woodley Park was a spectacular success, bringing joy and excitement to over 350 guests. This annual celebration united children and families from our foster services program for a day filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit. Thanks to the incredible support of Ares Management, Houlihan Lokey, and Wedbush, the carnival featured an array of activities that created unforgettable memories for everyone involved.
Families delighted in dancing and singing along to tunes provided by DJ Max, who kept the energy high throughout the day. Arts and crafts stations buzzed with creativity, as kids decorated their own hats and picture frames, crafted jewelry, and indulged in face painting and temporary tattoos. Inflatable games added to the excitement, and everyone enjoyed delicious burgers hot off the grill and refreshing ice cream treats. The photo booth and the on-demand t-shirt station, featuring the "Better Together" theme, were hugely popular, with guests taking home personalized mementos to remember the day.
One heartwarming moment that stood out was when a young girl thanked a volunteer for their time together at the hat decorating table, showing her appreciation for the fun and connection they shared. Moments like these highlight the true spirit of the carnival and the meaningful connections made.
Volunteers from Ares, Houlihan Lokey, and Wedbush managed various games, crafts, and treat stations, fostering connections with the kids and each other. The day was a perfect blend of community spirit and joyful celebration, where everyone, from the kids to the volunteers, had a blast. Katrina Killoran, a long-time board member and volunteer, shared her thoughts:
"As someone who was once in foster care with Penny Lane and now serves on the board, participating in this event for over 12 years has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing the smiles on the kids' faces and the joy it brings to families reminds me why this event is so important. It's a day for everyone to feel loved and supported, and it’s truly magical to witness the connections made and the happiness shared." -Katrina Killoran, Penny Lane Board Member
Penny Lane staff cherished the opportunity to spend quality time with the families they serve. The dedicated volunteers, many of whom return year after year, amazed everyone with their enthusiasm and commitment. Together, the community created a day of togetherness and hope, showcasing the power of collective effort.
It was a picture-perfect day filled with laughter, beautiful smiles, and lasting memories. We are deeply grateful for everyone’s support in making this event a magical experience.
-Nydia Barakat, Penny Lane Centers
