October 31, 2017
Written by Katie Kuhn, United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
During United Way’s Season of Caring, volunteer groups can choose from a variety of different ways to get involved in their community. Each year, a few lucky groups get the chance to put a smile on kids’ faces while having a *scary* good time at Bay View Community Center’s Halloween Spooktacular!
About 10 families dress up and bring the kids for an afternoon filled with tricks…and treats! The day begins with a healthy family lunch with something good for both parents and kids. Then, costumed volunteers set up stations at each office in Bay View Community Center’s building complete with decorated cardboard “doors” that children can knock on to receive a treat.
Instead of candy, volunteers pass out fun small toys and healthy snacks like play-doh, bouncy balls, bubbles, and goldfish.
“The kids get really excited,” says Kim Schubring, family and youth program director at Bay View Community Center, “they love knowing there is something behind the door and opening it up to get their treat!”
After trick-or-treating, volunteers lead fun games and activities aimed at children ages 2-5, with older or younger siblings welcome to join in.
“This event is perfect for a family with really young children who may not be quite ready for outdoor trick-or-treating, or who have children with special needs or challenges,” says Kim, “it is also just a great event for families looking to experience something fun and inexpensive together!”
Bay View Community Center has served the Bay View neighborhood for nearly 40 years, offering programs for every stage of life, from early childhood to older adult and everything in between.
In addition to helping set up for and run events like the Spooktacular, volunteers assist with office duties, weekly projects, food pantry, and other one-time events with families and seniors.
With United Way’s help, Bay View Community Center welcomes over 300 volunteers through their door per year. With a staff of only three, volunteer help is appreciated. “If we did not have volunteer help, that would impact what we could provide and how many people we could serve,” says Kim, “We truly value each and every volunteer…we consider them family.”
Learn more about the Bay View Community Center and how you can support them through a gift to United Way’s Community Fund.
Browse Season of Caring opportunities to get involved and have fun with your colleagues, friends, or family.