The Day Solutions Foundation, otherwise known as DSF, hosted its first community event on Sunday evening, and it was a huge success. Nearly 100 individuals, including over 45 dance participants, volunteers, families, and caregivers, spent Sunday afternoon at Avenue HQ, a unique venue in Jefferson City, for a black and white themed dance. The event was completely free to families and participants. Safety at the event was a priority for the Foundation, all participants were required to complete an online application prior to arrival to ensure that all necessary medical and contact information was provided and thoroughly reviewed. The event was secure, with matching wristbands being given to both dancers and caregivers, allowing families and group homes the option to drop participants off or stay and enjoy the event. All individuals with food related allergies or medical concerns were given separate red alert bands to ensure all volunteers were aware of potential concerns. The most important aspect for the Foundation was to ensure both caregivers and participants were comfortable with all procedures and left wanting to come back.

Columbia DJ, Kendale Carter, who donated his time and talent for the event free of charge, spun a variety of tracks for the crowd. In one of the most memorable moments of the event, DJ Carter let an aspiring DJ up on stage and gave him the opportunity to scratch on stage as the crowd went wild. The young man’s DJ video, has already received over 800 views on Facebook, a moment he is sure to remember forever.          

The Foundation says that pulling off such a successful event could not have been done without the help of all involved. On Friday afternoon, clients of Day Solutions Day Habilitation Program, went to visit the Jefferson City Coca-Cola Bottling Company, a new DSF sponsor, who graciously donated beverages for Sunday’s event. The excited visitors received flashy red Coca-Cola sunglasses and icy cold beverages. Buffalo Wild Wings, also a sponsor of DSF, provided over 800 boneless wings free of charge and even had Blaze, the BWW mascot, deliver them to Avenue HQ.

The illustrious reputation of the Foundation continues to attract more and more participants to events, which is in fact one of its primary goals. By creating meaningful impact and social opportunities, the work of the Foundation provides individuals the opportunity to foster community engagement, appropriate social interaction, and develop significant relationships. The plans for future DSF events are already in the works and will be held at least once per quarter. The next event will be held in late Fall, and the organization is planning to rent out a movie theater for a private showing, complete with popcorn and other goodies. You can stay up to date about DSF events, and view more pictures and videos from the event on the DSF Facebook page.

For more on DSF and other non-profits in Jefferson City, check out our blog.