Event will connect residents with local nonprofits, civic organizations and clubs
Franklin Connects, the community initiative launched in June to reduce loneliness and increase belonging, is hosting a free Community Fair at the Bicentennial Park Pavilion on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is sponsored by Williamson Health. More than 45 local organizations that are seeking volunteers, members and participants will be providing information on how local residents can engage. A list of current confirmed vendors is attached.
“Franklin is fortunate to have an incredible variety of organizations that offer ways our residents can get involved,” said Franklin Mayor Ken Moore. “As our community grows, we also have more and more citizens who feel isolated and don’t know how to plug in. The Franklin Connects Community Fair will offer Franklin residents the opportunity to interact with organizations and hopefully find ways to get engaged.”
“No matter your interest whether it is reading, running and biking or volunteering, there is a group in Franklin that fits for you,” said Amanda Morrissey, event chair. “Our hope is that the Community Fair will help bring people and organizations together for the benefit of all.”
In addition to visiting tables hosted by the organizations, entertainment will be provided throughout the event and there will be door prize giveaways. Food vendors, including La Paleteria Ice Cream Shop and Lolly’s Gourmet Pops, will also be on site.
Franklin Connects is a new community initiative focused on reducing loneliness and increasing belonging through a series of programs, resources and events designed to help residents build meaningful relationships. It emerged out of Find Hope Franklin, an effort championed by Mayor Ken Moore and a host of mental health and substance use experts and concerned citizens to erase the stigma of mental health in our community. For more information about Franklin Connects, upcoming events and available resources, visit franklinconnects.org.