As plans take shape for the 2nd annual free community event on Saturday, Aug. 8 in downtown Henderson, organizer Jayden Watkins says the event has something for all ages.
It’s called “Shaping the Future: A Community Extravaganza,” and Watkins hopes to see youth and adults of all ages from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. along Breckenridge Street outside Perry Memorial Library to take in all the sights and sounds that go along with an event of this nature.
In addition to food trucks, a bouncy house, live entertainment, free health screenings and even a blood drive, Watkins said more than 600 bookbags – filled with school supplies – will be distributed during the event. And college students, take note: you can register for the chance to get a free laptop computer, he added.
A youth talent showcase gets underway at 12 noon, and Watkins said he’s hopeful that youth and young adults will contact him to join in the fun.
“If you know someone or if you… want to participate,” there will be a stage, microphones, the works, Watkins explained on Tuesday’s TownTalk. Some of the acts include dance and spoken word, among others.
Planning an event for the whole community is no small task, and Watkins said he’s still looking for donations of school supplies to go along with the very generous donation of 3,000 items given by House of Toyz, one of two presenting sponsors. Margier White is the other presenting sponsor.
Those school supplies won’t pack themselves, so volunteers are needed Friday, Aug. 7 at 6 p.m. to fill bookbags.
Turning Point CDC is bringing its mobile learning lab, and a couple of event-decorating companies are pitching in with balloon installations and chairs to create a festive, comfortable atmosphere.
“Every detail of the event matters to me,” Watkins said.
Watkins, now 18, has accomplished a lot in a short time – in addition to being a minister, author, podcaster and youth organizer, he has formed and leads the non-profit Higher is Waiting.
So far, God’s plans for him have been in Henderson, his hometown.
“I am mission- and vision-focused,” he said, but added that in just a few weeks, his focus is most likely going to shift as he heads off to UNC-Chapel Hill.
He’s asked himself more than once how he’s going to balance being a college student and continue being involved in his community.
The answer, he says simply, is by being very discerning. He may not be able to say “yes” to everything God is putting in his path.
“He wants me to do them, but He doesn’t want me to do them now,” Watkins said.
And although he’ll be away at school, he said Henderson will always be close by – in his heart and mind.
“I have to go so I can grow,” he said. “I’m going to always come back to Henderson.
I may move because God wants me to grow and learn and explore, but I’m never going to forget my humble beginnings.”
Call or text Jayden at 252.425.0354, find him and his non-profit on Facebook or visit https://jaydenwatkins.com/higher-is-waiting to learn more.
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