08/03/2026
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to every sponsor, partner, volunteer, vendor, elected official, organization, and family who helped make Park Forest Youth Day 2026 an extraordinary success.
Despite the rain forcing a last-minute venue change, our community came together in an incredible way. Thanks to the generosity and collaboration of so many, we welcomed nearly 1,200 attendees, including more than 1,000 children and youth, making this the largest Park Forest Youth Day in our history.
This event is a powerful reminder that when a community unites around its young people, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.
A special thank you to Rich Township High School District 227 for the outstanding performances by the Marching Band, Cheer Team, and Pom Squad, whose energy and school spirit made the day even more memorable.
Thank you to Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163 for your incredible partnership. Your willingness to open the doors of Michelle Obama School of Technology and the Arts on short notice because of the weather ensured that hundreds of families could continue enjoying the event safely indoors. Your flexibility and commitment to our youth will never be forgotten.
We are grateful to Fort Care Mobile Health Services for providing free school physicals and health services to our families throughout the day.
One of the most impactful moments of Youth Day came through the free children's eye exams. Thanks to our dedicated partners, 34 children received eye examinations, and several families learned for the first time that their child needed glasses. Access to services like these can truly change the trajectory of a child's education and future, and we are honored to have helped connect families to these life-changing resources.
Thank you to the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Theta Mu Lambda Chapter, and the women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Theta Mu Lambda - ΞΞ¦Ξ, whose partnership, service, and commitment helped make this year's event exceptional. Your support exemplifies the true spirit of community service.
To our vendors, community organizations, entertainers, volunteers, public safety personnel, healthcare providers, elected officials, and every family who attendedβthank you. Because of you, our children experienced a day filled with joy, education, health resources, entertainment, and opportunities designed just for them.
We could not be more proud of what we accomplished together. This event was not simply about one day of fun, it was about investing in our young people, strengthening our community, and demonstrating what is possible when we work together.
The success of this year's event has set a new standard, and we are already looking forward to making next year even bigger and better.
Please Save the Date!
Park Forest Youth Day 2027
Saturday, July 24, 2027
We look forward to seeing you there as we continue building brighter futures for the youth of our community.
