NORTHBOROUGH – Families from the Northborough community gathered at Ellsworth McAfee Park on Thursday, June 13, for the third annual Summer Kickoff Event.
In celebration of the last day of school for Northborough students, community members of all ages were encouraged to participate in this free summer event, which was filled with informational booths, inflatable bounce houses, free gifts and more.
Be Well Northborough is the health and wellness initiative group that has been assisting in community COVID-19 recovery. The group first organized the event three years ago in order to “bring people back together after COVID-19,” said Director of Health and Human Services Isabella Caruso.
“We understood that isolation can really take a toll on the kids and their families. This is our third year going and I really hope to continue into next year,” said Caruso.
Not only does this event provide community oriented outdoor activities, it also assists in creating an environment for Northborough residents to speak with town department members. Some of the departments in attendance included the Town Clerk’s Office, Health and Human Services Department, Police Department, Fire Department, Recreation Department and the Administration Office of the Select Board.
“This event really helps make sure that everyone in town knows what their resources are. As far as mental health, physical health, recreation and any kind of town needs. It’s more of a relaxed way for the community members to connect with their town representatives,” said Recreation Department Assistant Maegan Wackell.
Mixing both recreational and informative activities appeared to be a major hit amongst the community members of Northborough, as hundreds of residents have been in attendance over the last three years.
When speaking with Caruso about the importance of this event, she hopes that people leave with a “joy for Northborough.
“I feel like we’re all so busy and it’s really nice to have one day to gather together and see all the good work these departments contribute to the town. Also, of course to just have some fun,” she said.