Back to School, Back to Community Block Party with GPCA Cares

GPCA Cares Block Party | Back to School, Back to Community

The best way to build strong communities? Start early and build together. GPCA invites you to a one-of-a-kind celebration of Early Childhood Education, where families can explore free Pre-K programs, connect with real resources, and enjoy an unforgettable day of fun, learning, and love—South Philly style.

🎯 Carnival-Style Games — Play your heart out & win fun prizes!

🎨 Arts & Crafts Stations — Spark creativity with hands-on activities

📚 Literacy Corner — Grab free books & enjoy live read-alouds

🎁 Raffles & School Supply Giveaways — Score school supplies, bookbags and surprise goodies all day long

🥋 Self-Defense Demos — Learn powerful moves in a kid-friendly way

✂️ Snag Your Free Hair Cut — Step into school in style

🎮 Building with Minecraft — Dive into pixelated fun and build your own world!

• Powerful breakout sessions: mindfulness, self-care, financial literacy & more(see schedule below)
• Real Talk parent-led discussions on what families really need
• Meet the teachers behind our award-winning Pre-K
• Explore free GPCA programs for afterschool, parenting, housing & more

• Free BBQ, hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn, and ice-cold drinks
• DJ, dancing, community vibes, and connection
• Info tables from all GPCA departments—come see what’s possible

Let us know you’re coming! RSVPs help us prepare enough food, supplies, and materials—and help you stay in the loop for more resources and giveaways. Walk-ins are always welcome.

This isn’t just a party—it’s a movement for strong families, safe communities, and a future where every child has the chance to thrive.

🧡 Hosted by Greater Philadelphia Community Alliance (GPCA) www.gpcacares.org

Info: • Welcome table open (sign-in, get wristbands, raffle entry)
• Emcee opening remarks and overview of the day- Dr. Terrance Hobson & Tynnetta Beyah
• DJ kicks off

Info: CARNIVAL GAMES AND ACTIVITY BOOTHS • Face Painting
• Monkey Striker
• Tall Striker
• Connect Four Hoops
• Blitz
• Go-Kart Racetrack • Hair Cuts
• Early Childhood Learning Tent with Science, Math, Literacy Activity, and Sensory Activities
• Photo Booth with Props

GRAB A BITE TO EAT!
• Hot Dogs
• Popcorn & Cotton Candy Stations
• Funnel Cakes & Fried Oreos
• Water Ice

PROGRAM ENROLLMENT & INFO TABLES
• Meet the Staff & Teachers
• GPCA resource tables
• Volunteer Opportunities

Info: This breakout will discuss ways for families to budget for next school year and ways to improve their credit.

Info:

Info: Explore the world of Minecraft and learn how build in the world. Drop into one of our sessions at 11:30am, 12pm, 12:30pm, 1pm and 1:30pm. Sessions run for 25 minutes. For the smaller kids we will be building with blocks in real life and older kids will be building in the video game.

Info: Drop into an all-ages self defense class with Coach Gene of Skys the Limit Fitness. Classes are 45 minutes and run on the hour at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm. Learn more about Coach Gene here. https://linktr.ee/skysthelimitfitness

Info: • Testimonials from current families or students
• Staff introductions & Storytime by Joseph Parham
• Short performances by Mlanjeni Magic Entertainment
• Announce midway raffle winners

Info: This breakout session will allow parents to identify their roles in the family dynamic to empower themselves to practice boundaries within their home. This allows us to develop role and responsibilities together as a family unit.

Info: This breakout session will allow parents to develop a self care routine and developing practices for wellness. Come join to learn more about how to empower you and the people around you!

Info: • GPCA Trivia
• Raffle draw
• Thank-you remarks & last call for registration
• Group photo session

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Diversified Community Services-Dixon House, 1920 South 20th Street, Philadelphia, United States