The Kansas City Central church recently collaborated with other churches in the Grandview area, as well as the local police and fire departments and their chaplaincies, to sponsor a Harvest Festival as an alternative to Halloween.

Over 2,000 people from the surrounding community came to the festival, which had booths for games, music, food, bounce houses, pony rides, and a petting zoo. Attendees were asked to bring non-perishable food items to be donated to the Grandview Assistance Program, an organization providing assistance to families in need.

Children who visited our booth searched a treasure chest for hidden gems redeemable for prizes. Volunteers Ed Beijen, Darrin Donahue, Jerribeth Donahue, Kent Dunwoody, Sarah Dunwoody, Margaret Hamlett, and Marilyn Wilson each made sure every child found a gem.

Our booth also gave away 40 copies of Ellen White’s book, Steps to Christ, 75 copies of a prophecy video series, 150 children’s Bible studies, and 125 flyers with information about the church and an invitation to an upcoming cooking school. We’re thankful for a great evening and all of the new connections made.