Wilson Commencement Park
Ten Ugly Men Festival
Saturday, July 25, 2009 | Celebrating 20 years of Uglyness
The Ten Ugly Men are planning another huge outdoor festival to benefit local charities at Genesee Valley Park. In 2008 these 11 generous, fun-loving guys, gave $27,200, a portion of their proceeds, to help low-income, single-parent WCP families achieve self-sufficiency. All of us at the Park, including staff and volunteers, are excited to once again be actively involved this year with the 2009 festival, in support of Wilson Commencement Park.
Please visit the Ten Ugly Men festival website for more information on this event.
Back to School Bash
August 2009 | Again we will feature Roscoe the Clown and his balloon animals, and plenty of other attractions for the kids as well, including a feast of hot dogs and popcorn.
5th Annual Jazz for the Park
Since its inception in 2005, Jazz for the Park has raised $90,000 for Wilson Commencement Park (WCP). The presence of Jazz for the Park gives WCP visibility in the community, and provides important support for our work in helping low-income, single parents realize their dreams of becoming self-sufficient.
In its first year Jazz for the Park presented internationally acclaimed Kevin Mahagony accompanied by the youthful New Life Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Kendrick Oliver.
In 2006, Wilson Commencement Park was able to secure a performance by legendary Multi Grammy Award Winner George Benson with a very special performance by Raul Midon.
In 2007, Wilson Commencement Park had the opportunity to present a dynamite concert by Multi Grammy Award Winner Pat Metheny, who was joined by Christian McBride and Antonio Sanchez.
The 2008 Wilson Commencement Park brought highly acclaimed Kurt Elling and Ernie Watts to the Eastman Theatre. It was a wonderful event, and in addition to the 4th annual Jazz for the Park receiving a rave concert review, the evening also touched peoples hearts.
Jazz for the Park is made possible through the generous support of all its sponsors and patrons. A post concert reception following the performance gives patron-ticket holders and sponsors the opportunity to mingle among each other, learn more about WCP's mission and to meet the artist.
For sponsorship opportunities and to place an ad into the JFTP program book contact Petra Henderson. Visit the Jazz for the Park website for more information on this signature benefit concert and scroll through the photo gallery.
Nurture A Future Breakfast
Join us for a continental breakfast at Wilson Commencement Park and learn more about WCP's special work with families and children in our community. The NAF breakfasts are scheduled from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Dates in 2009 will be posted shortly.
Rescheduled date will be announced soon - Make the Impossible Possible...BILL STRICKLAND - Rochester's only appearance of Grammy Award Winner, Genius Award Winner, Mesmerizing Speaker and Lecturer, and Widely Acclaimed Author. This event is hosted by Resilient, a company that celebrates the courage and strength of single parents. Founded by Cheryl LaTray, Resilient provides: encouragement, resources, and support. For detailed information and to purchase tickets call (315) 573-2337.
The Snow Ball is Wilson Commencement Park's signature celebration of winter and a time to share the warmth with so many good friends. The event benefits WCP's programs to help low-income single parent families develop the skills they need to become independent. In addition to raising funds for WCP, the Snow Ball recognizes the accomplishments of its residents and major patrons.
Winter Book Carnival
In January of every year, WCP's staff and families celebrate the joy of reading at the annual Winter Book Carnival. The Carnival is made possible through the support of the Volunteers of America Scholastic Book program, and the generosity of longtime WCP friend, V.J. Stanley. This year's theme, "Lights, Camera, Bookfair," was designed to create a visually inviting literature display, capturing the children's curiosity and imagination, and inspiring them to immerse themselves in the world of literature. "Reading Makes You A Star" was this year's slogan.
Carnival activities include reading and word games; and each child receives a new book as a door prize at the end of the evening. Complete with plenty of popcorn and cotton candy for munching, the Winter Book Carnival promises to be a "Don't Miss" event!
The event is part of
Saturday, May 30, 2009 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. | Reinforcing the Importance of Properly Buckling Up Kids
State Farm Insurance brings Child Safety Day to the Rochester community for the 9th year; partnering once again with Wilson Commencement Park (WCP). While motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of unintentional death of children over age 1 in the United States, many of these tragedies could be avoided through appropriate safety restraint use. Through this event, parents are educated about the importance of properly buckling up their children.
In addition to WCP, State Farm partners with the Greece SafeKids. Certified technicians and volunteers provide free child safety seat insprections, and provide assistance to ensure they are properly installed. "By hosting Child Safety Day events, State Farm continues its commitment to child passenger safety. Parents are educated on proper safety practices for children riding in cars," says State Farm Public Affairs Specialist, Rhondalynn Richards. The day will also include a tour of the Early Learning Center and the WCP campus, face-painting, arts and crafts, and visits from Roscoe the Clown and the State Farm Good Neigh Bear.
