End of summer cookout helps families celebrate, make memories

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

Branson’s House of Hope recently celebrated the end of summer with a fun-filled family event to celebrate the beginning of a new school year.

“This year served as our first of hopefully many summer cookouts,” said House of Hope Services Director Alex Sprinkle. “We had over 150 people join us. House of Hope hosted the event, and many area partners joined in.

The event’s goal was to create an environment where families could make memories as the summer ends and school begins.”

Children and their families enjoyed the bouncy house, yard games and photo booth. Jamie Curry with Face FX donated his time and talent to offer face painting to those in attendance. Music was provided by Will Cooper from DJ Will’s DJ Services. Christian Action Ministries provided dinner for those attending, and House of Hope volunteers provided snow cones.

“Many participants shared their excitement about the event and the activities included,” said Sprinkle. “We feel like the event was a huge success, and hope to continue the tradition as an annual event. Melanie Sawatzki, our Community Partner, spent many hours coordinating the event, and we truly couldn’t ask for anything better.”

“There’s something incredibly sweet about serving the community with no strings attached,” Sprinkle continued. “As I scanned the crowd at the summer cookout, I saw families laughing and making meaningful memories together. Amid financial burdens, economic stress and personal stressors, families chose joy.”