Spooktacular Fun and STEM Learning at Kroc Community Center’s Family Fun Night

At the Wisconsin Out of School Time Alliance, we believe in highlighting events that provide enriching and engaging experiences for children and youth outside of school hours. One such event was held on October 11th, at the Kroc Community Center in Green Bay, where families gathered for a Halloween-themed Family Fun Night that combined spooky fun with STEM learning.

A Hub for Community and Creativity

The Kroc Community Center, a vital part of the Salvation Army, has long been a cornerstone for low-income families in Green Bay. With its diverse range of programs including arts, recreation, and community services, the center offers a safe and nurturing environment for children and families to learn and grow.

Grace Hageman, the Community Outreach Coordinator at the Kroc Center, shared, "We like to call ourselves a place of serving secondary needs... we have spiritual spaces, we have Arts, Fine Arts spaces, and recreation programs, as well."

A Spooky STEM Spectacle

The Family Fun Night, held monthly, is a signature event at the Kroc Center, aiming to bring families together through themed activities. This particular night stood out with its Halloween and STEM focus, dozens of families, eager to explore the spooky and scientific wonders prepared for them.

"Science and Halloween just go so perfectly together. You can make any science activity Halloween and you can make any Halloween thing science in some way," Hageman explained. The event featured a variety of interactive stations and demonstrations that made learning both fun and festive.

Engaging Community Partners

Two key community partners played a significant role in making the evening a success. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, represented by Madison Ellenbecker, brought a biological twist with a display of sea lamprey and discussions on invasive species in the Great Lakes, along with native mussels.

"It's really important to us to reach out to the younger generations, about biology, and the sciences, especially the conservation sciences," Ellenbecker emphasized.

The Einstein Project, another major partner, showcased their extensive work in STEM education. Denise McFarland highlighted the Project’s efforts, stating, "The Einstein Project is decades old and is most known for putting together their science kits that go into schools." Their presence was bolstered by the support of JBS, a significant donor, who helps bring STEM activities to numerous community events.

Out-of-School Time Programs Make Learning Fun

The event was designed to cater to all ages, ensuring that every child and their family could find something engaging and educational. From making slime and s'mores at previous events to this night’s STEM activities, the Kroc Center’s Family Fun Nights delivered memorable experiences for children ages 4 to 14.

"I want families to have fun together. I want them to have a cool experience that's different from other events... that there's good memories and fun times to be had," Hageman shared.

By integrating educational content with enjoyable activities, the Kroc Community Center’s Family Fun Night exemplifies how community partnerships can enhance out-of-school time programs. This event not only provided entertainment but also fostered a love for STEM among children, making an impact on all who attended.

At the Wisconsin Out of School Time Alliance, we celebrate such initiatives that support child and youth engagement. Events like these not only bring families together but also ignite curiosity and a passion for learning in young minds. We look forward to seeing more community-driven events that inspire and educate our future generations.