Free Backpacks, Music, and More at Grand Rapids End-of-Summer Party

Summer’s not over just yet, and one Grand Rapids gym is making sure the season goes out with a bang by giving away 400 backpacks to families in need.

It’s all part of an event called Fun in the Sun, which is a way to not only celebrate the end of summer since it’s Labor Day weekend, but also to give local families a boost they may need heading into the new school year.

Blues Gym, which is a non-profit that has long been focused on supporting young people in Grand Rapids, has pulled together something that’s more than just a good time. It’s about building connections, providing opportunities, and making sure kids feel set up for success.

Founder Dino Newville told our friends at Fox17 that the goal of Fun in the Sun is to give kids alternatives to violence and crime, while also helping families find resources they need. As they say- it takes a village. And, this is exactly what they mean. it's not just about family, it's about community.

To make that happen, the gym has collected 400 backpacks filled with school supplies to hand out to students, and partnered with staffing agencies to host a job fair during the event.

The party kicks off at 1pm on Saturday, August 30, at Blues Gym on Kalamazoo Avenue near 42nd Street.

Along with the backpack giveaway and job fair, families can expect plenty of fun, including a bounce house, live music, free food, and of course, that can’t-miss dunk tank.