GSHFH launches "Habitat Family Fun Fest," raises $16,000 in community celebration

And just like that, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) has created a new tradition.

On Oct. 5, Greater Springfield Habitat hosted its inaugural “Habitat Family Fun Fest” at Morgan Road Pavilion in West Springfield. The free community-focused fundraising event celebrated "World Habitat Day" (a day early) and showcased food trucks, artisanal beer, craft vendors, and community partners, with games, music, and performances for attendees. Habitat also hosted its own table to answer questions about its programs, volunteering opportunities, and offered homeownership applications to interested families. (Homeownership applications are due Friday, Oct. 31.)

Bree D'Amours (second from left), a member of Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity's Board of Directors, takes a ticket from her son Jordan as he looks at prizes. To her right is her daughter, Gabriella, who volunteered at the event. Fellow board member Nick Restivo stands in line with his son, Anthony, behind him.

Fun Fest attracted roughly 150 people and raised approximately $16,000.

“It’s a really great event. It’s a gorgeous day and a lot of nice people and vendors,” said Heather Zielenski of Westfield Bank, Habitat Family Fun Fest’s silver sponsor, at the event.

The event featured Macken’s Specialty Sliders and The Saucy Mama food trucks; as well as Vanished Valley Brewing Company, Lost Towns Brewing, and One Way Brewing. At least nine community partners came to share information about their services. Nearly a dozen vendors also peddled their wares.

Peruvian musician Etienne Perley played his pan pipes; Stompin’ Boots performed line dancing and gave lessons; and local baton twirlers showed off their skills.

“I saw the event advertised in the newspaper and thought I’d check it out,” said Kathy of West Springfield as she and a friend shopped at the Mattoon Soap Company table. “It’s fantastic and Habitat is a great organization.”

Kathy and Bob Morace of Mimi’s Blessings, a candle vendor at Fun Fest, said they love events that give back to the community. Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity is one of those organizations. In fact, 14 years ago, their daughter met her husband at a Habitat event.

Dennis Langrin, of Springfield, said he had heard about Fun Fest and made a point to attend. Once there, he made a beeline for Greater Springfield Habitat’s information tent. He’s getting ready to retire and thinks volunteering for the nonprofit is a good opportunity to be active in the community.

“It's a great event that allows the community to learn about us and how to get involved with us,” said Aimee Giroux, GSHFH executive director.