Community Rec & Ed co-sponsors fall food drive & free fitness class Aug. 26

Community Education and Recreation (Rec & Ed), Venue by 4M, and Food Gatherers are bringing residents together for a fun fitness event and food drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August. 26 to help support Washtenaw County residents in need.

The goal is to raise 250 pounds of food (1.2 pounds = 1 meal) and personal items.

Those who donate at least one food or personal item are invited to join Rec & Ed for a free Groove Movement class from 9 to 10 a.m., as well as a free mimosa from Venue.

“Every body needs nutritious food to thrive and maintain homeostasis,” says Terry McNeely, Rec & Ed Fitness & Yoga Program Supervisor. ” Collective efforts within the community are essential to help mitigate the lack of nutritious food.  We need to bolster our commitment to end hunger by working together within our community.”

McNeely notes that nationally, one out of every six individuals in the US rely on some type of food assistance to survive.  Across the country families are doing everything they can to put food on the table.  The continued increase in food prices intensifies the need for more food assistance.

  • When: August 26, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. rain or shine.
  • Where: The parking lot of Venue, 1919 S. Industrial, Ann Arbor.
  • Free Fitness class from 9 to 10 a.m.
  • Please note: The food drive is open to everyone, even those not participating in the fitness class. If you make a donation you can still get your free mimosa even if you do not participate in the fitness class.
  • Pre-registration is preferred, but not necessary.
  • See the attached flier for pre-registration, most needed food/items list, and more information.  Fall Food Drive/Fitness Event

Ann Arbor Community Recreation & Education:

For almost 100 years, AAPS Community Education and Recreation, aka Rec & Ed, has provided a wide variety of high quality, affordable enrichment, fitness, yoga, and recreation programs to the residents of Ann Arbor and its surrounding communities.  Our core values drive our mission to enhance the quality of life for our community through recreation and education:

  • Promote well-being
  • Build community
  • Be inclusive
  • Meet AAPS and community needs
  • Ensure Rec & Ed’s continued ability to provide services to the community.

We strive to serve all in our community.  See the website for more information:  aarecedonline.com

Venue by 4M:

Ann Arbor’s new gathering spot for community members of all ages!  The concept of a ‘15-minute neighborhood’ is one of 4 M’s missions. This concept was designed to meet the community’s wants and needs within a 15 minute walk, bike or with public transportation.  The modern, yet quirky and sophisticated design of this all in one restaurant, bar, event space, market, cafe, and co-working offices provides just the right ambience for every need.  You can eat, work, and play at the same spot!  The menu offers a large selection of food items and you will find a variety of different entertainment nights for adults and kids. See the website for more information:  https://www.experience4m.com/

Food Gatherers:

Food Gatherers is the food bank and food rescue program serving Washtenaw County.  As the lead agency for hunger relief in the County, Food Gatherers supports a network of more than 140 community partners with free and low-cost food, deliveries, and training.  They operate several large direct service programs -The Food Gatherers Community Kitchen, the Summer Food Service Program, and the Healthy School Pantry Program and work closely with community schools, universities, and healthcare providers to address gaps in services.  The Food Gatherers outreach program would not be possible without the support of the community. Please join us in the fight against hunger!  See the website for more information:  https://www.foodgatherers.org/

Tags from the story
More from Special to Discover Communities

AA Spark: New Collaboration Strengthens Support for Small Businesses in Washtenaw and beyond

Story by AA Spark A collaboration supporting small businesses across Washtenaw, Livingston,...
Read More