ANKENY, Iowa — Before summer vacation ends and a new school year starts, nonprofit Focuss will be bring together children and families in a meaningful way.
The group is hosting their fourth annual "Ankeny Strong" event, a day of celebration and togetherness where all are welcome.
"This is like our end of summer party where everyone comes together," said Focuss advisory board member Tara Patterson.
There will be plenty of games for the kids, in addition to resources that families may need. Students can receive free health screenings and school supplies free of charge,
Several Ankeny businesses will also be on hand to help job seekers find work opportunities. Axis Therapy Centers will also provide a sensory-friendly section at the event for children with special needs.
"We want the special needs community to be integrated always, whether it's a race or whether it's a disability, or whether it's your preference, like you know what to identify as ... we want to make sure that everybody feels comfortable with coming into our events," Patterson said.
"Ankeny Strong" will be held Saturday in the Ankeny Bandshell at Wagner Park. The event runs from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.