More than 300 parents and children attended The Child and Family Network Centers’ (CFNC) 5th annual Multicultural Celebration. According to Barbara Mason, Executive Director, it was one of the largest crowds ever gathered for the celebration.
This year’s celebration was particularly vibrant as CFNC is now serving families with roots tracing back to 29 countries worldwide, ranging from Afghanistan to El Salvador to Yugoslavia and all points in between.
The celebration was organized by the parents involved in CFNC’s programs. In addition to planning and fundraising, they also contributed home-cooked food from some of the best recipes world-wide.
Highlights of the celebration included: Music and entertainment, including a live performance by reggaeton artist, Janc; petting zoo and pony riding, face painting; moonbounce; games and door prizes, arts and crafts such as puppet making, painting, and sand art.
The celebration was made possible through sponsorships from Burke & Herbert Bank & Trust and PNC Bank In addition to sponsoring the celebration, both banks joined in the festivities. Runyon, the parrot mascot of Burke and Herbert Bank, was very popular with the children. PNC Bank’s Mobile Learning Adventure was also a big hit. The Mobile Learning Adventure offered kiosks with touch-screens where children played educational games, and parents learned how to use everyday experiences to educate their young children. It also included a "When I Grow Up" station, where students dressed like their future chosen profession and had their picture taken. Children received a free copy of the photo.
To help the event run smoothly, employees from Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City and students from The Potomac School volunteered their time.