Build & Belong: Cultivating Community Connections

The Historic Manheim Neighborhood Association invites you to Build & Belong. Manheim is rooted in a simple but powerful belief. Our belief is that strong communities are built through connection, care, and shared experiences. As a neighborhood organization, we are committed to creating spaces where residents feel seen, valued, and supported, and where families can come together in meaningful ways.

Many of our gatherings are intentionally designed to bring neighbors closer, strengthen relationships, and create safe, welcoming environments for youth and families to grow and thrive.

Join us for Build & Belong, a free, hands-on STEM experience designed for youth and families in the Historic Manheim neighborhood and surrounding communities.

This community-centered event is limited to 20 youth (ages 5–18) to create a meaningful and engaging experience. Parents or guardians are required to stay and participate, building alongside their child to encourage not only community connection, but deeper family connection and shared moments of creativity.

This event brings together creativity, connection, and community through interactive Lego building challenges, youth-led innovation, and collaborative learning. Participants will explore engineering concepts, design their own creations, and share their ideas in a fun, supportive environment.

What to expect:
• Guided Lego STEM building
• Free-build innovation stations
• Youth presentations and showcases
• A free community meal
• Opportunities for families to build and connect together

Bonus:
Youth participants will select and take home the set they build during the event. They will also be entered into a drawing for Visa gift card and two lego themed gift baskets.

Build & Belong is more than an event! It’s a space where youth can explore their creativity, build confidence, and experience a sense of belonging alongside their families and community.

This event is hosted by Mrs. Carly Wright, a proud resident of the Historic Manheim neighborhood. As both a community member and advocate, Carly is passionate about creating opportunities that center joy, creativity, and connection. Especially for youth and families. Her work reflects a deep commitment to building not just programs, but spaces where people feel a true sense of belonging.

Come build, connect, and belong. Together.

This event is part of Remake Learning Days Kansas City, a regional celebration of hands‑on learning

Info: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM (45 min)
Welcome, Opening Remarks & Community Lunch
-Guest arrival & check-in
-Welcome from Historic Manheim Neighborhood Association
-Brief overview of Build & Belong
-Families enjoy lunch together
-Icebreaker to encourage connection
12:45 PM – 2:15 PM (1.5 hours)
LEGO Build & Innovation Time
-Introduction to building activity
-Youth + parents build together
-Open build options
-Youth mentors circulate to support
Creativity, collaboration, and connection at the center
2:15 PM – 2:30 PM (15 min)
Youth Share-Out & Reflection
-Youth showcase their builds (optional sharing)
-Group reflection:
What did you build?
What did you learn?

2:30 PM – 3:00 PM (30 min)
Raffle & Prize Giveaway + Closing
-Visa gift card and gift basket raffle
-Closing remarks & thank you
-Informal networking and wrap-up

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Equal Minded Cafe KC, 4327 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, United States

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