Smile Fest Returns to Bayliss Park: A Celebration of Community Support and Fun
Bayliss Park in Council Bluffs is set to host the third annual Smile Fest on Saturday, September 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This community event, organized by the nonprofit organization Share My Smile, aims to raise funds and awareness for children in foster care while providing a day of family-friendly activities.
This year’s Smile Fest promises a vibrant atmosphere with more than 20 vendors showcasing their goods and offerings, making it an excellent opportunity for local businesses to engage with the community. Attendees can look forward to a myriad of activities, including face painting, bounce houses, and midway games. Such features are designed to foster a festive and inclusive environment that emphasizes community connection and joy.
Michelle Irions, the executive director of Share My Smile, articulated the purpose of the event, stating, “Smile Fest creates a fun day for families and the community to connect and create lasting memories.” The organization focuses on nurturing a joyful environment that encourages genuine smiles and reinforces strong bonds among families, particularly those involved with foster care. Irions further elaborated on the mission of Share My Smile, which aims to ensure that every child feels valued and cared for, especially considering that many children in foster care face the challenges of frequent relocations.
Share My Smile currently provides essential support services to nearly 270 foster families and over 550 children in Southwest Iowa and Douglas County, Nebraska. This includes a range of care programs designed to meet the needs of foster, adopted, and biological children, highlighting the organization’s commitment to fostering child welfare in the region.
The festival will also feature live performances from local musical acts, including The 1-4-5 and Badd Combination, providing entertainment that enhances the festive atmosphere. As an open public event held at 100 Pearl Street, the festival invites everyone to join in on the fun while supporting a crucial cause.
For families, the event represents an opportunity not only to enjoy a day out but also to contribute to the greater good within their community. With its mix of fun, partnership, and meaningful impact, Smile Fest serves as a significant reminder of the power of community-driven initiatives in supporting vulnerable populations.
Mark your calendars for September 6 at Bayliss Park, where smiles, laughter, and community spirit await.
