UCS Families THRIVE together

Families across the district gathered for the third annual Family Wellness Fair on September 19th at Henry Ford II High School to celebrate the importance of health, wellness, and connection. 

Put together by UCS THRIVE (Trust healing resilience intentional voice and empowerment), this year’s event offered something for everyone, including cardio drumming, face painting, robotics demonstrations and family bowling. 

Alongside returning vendors like Turning Point, the Macomb County Health Department, Care Solace and Nutrition Services, the UCS Family Wellness Fair featured a new addition by having the district’s robotics teams, among others. 

“I thought it was so cool to see the teams showcase their robots and skills. Events like this give students the opportunity to see all the different ways they can get involved in robotics by being creative, working as a team, and staying active,” said Erin Chambers, DeKeyser Elementary School Teacher. “It was great to see the community come out and support them while they shared what they’ve been working on.”  

While the robotics teams gave students a chance to explore technology, creativity, and teamwork, the family Wellness Fair offered even more opportunities for students and families to get involved. The event featured interactive activities designed to bring families together, encourage movement and make wellness fun for everyone. 

“This year, there were activities for kids and families of all ages. A new addition this year was a raffle, with Razor scooters given away every half hour. It was a fun way to keep everyone engaged and add some excitement to the event,” Chambers said.  

Alongside the other vendors, Utica High School Health and Human Services Academy (HHS) attended the fair to showcase their knowledge and volunteer at the HHS booth and Kids Zone, where they could connect with younger students and families throughout the event and talk about the Health and Human Services Academy. 

“Seeing my students in the HHS Academy at Utica High School who volunteered to help run the HHS booth and Kid Zone share their wealth of knowledge with the younger kids and families” said Alyssa Pouliot Utica Health and Human Services Teacher. “This allows students to take ownership to help better their community, which is so worthwhile to see as a teacher.” 

The variety of activities and resources available throughout the fair reflected THRIVE’s commitment to whole-child wellness. By bringing students, families, staff and community organizations together, the event created an opportunity for the UCS community to connect, stay active and discover resources designed to support them.