This Fourth of July at Denver Rescue Mission, program participants living at The Crossing were invited to celebrate America’s independence with a delicious barbecue, fun lawn games and wonderful live music.
The evening began with a lovely meal that was provided by our amazing Mission chefs and served by our devoted Young Professionals (YP) group. “It’s always a great time to serve participants in the programs,” said Amanda, a YP member. “Just seeing their smiling faces and how appreciative they are makes it worth it.”
Blessed by the Band
While participants in our New Life Program and STAR Transitional Program enjoyed a delicious meal, they were also surprised with a band who blessed us with live music all through the night, and the festivities did not stop there!
On Your Mark, Get Set, Jump!
The games began with a splash as we soaked up the sun and played a game with water balloons.
While some got soaked, others got dizzy! The next game had the players spinning to get to the finish line with a lively game of dizzy bat.
On your mark, get set, jump! The races continued, but this time with a different kind of spin to it. Sack races and three-legged races left us laughing and a little out of breath!
After more than a year of COVID-19 restrictions, it was a blessing to be able to gather and enjoy great food and company. For our families and individuals living at The Crossing who have experienced homelessness and hardships in the past, this is one of the only celebrations they’ve had in a long time. STAR Program participant and single mother, Tianna, said she enjoys events like these because they create a “form of unity between a community when we are able to come together.”
Written by: Isabella Moore-Munoz, Content and Photography Intern
