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More than 160 adults and 97 children joined the MAS-SSF Family Fun & Wellness Day on Saturday, November 22nd—an energetic, full-day event offering activities for parents and children of all ages.
FOR ADULTS
The day began with a Wellness Through Awareness: Cancer Prevention Discussion Group, a well-attended session led by two representatives from the California Health Collaborative (CHC). Their presentation on Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention of Breast and Cervical Cancer was delivered in English by Michelle Outlaw with support from Sophia Oyewole. Attendees used listening devices to hear real-time translations in Dari or Pashto, allowing nearly 50 participants to ask questions and receive answers in the language they preferred. The 90-minute session was highly appreciated.
Next, the Omid team shared information about the wide range of support available to Afghan newcomers. Our trained peer support specialists work one-on-one with clients, offering counseling, mental health support, education resources, rent and food assistance, legal referrals, and other case-by-case services.
Following this, MAS-SSF staff led a workshop on Societal Norms: School System Interactions, offering practical advice to more than 50 parents on how to collaborate effectively with school staff to ensure their children receive a positive and equitable educational experience.
At the same time, a smaller group of ten parents participated in an Early Childhood Development workshop with their children under age five. These conversations focused on positive parenting skills, the importance of developmental screenings, and the value of periodic evaluations.
Toward the end of the day, 34 young mothers attended a Parents as Role Models workshop, where they learned practical strategies to support their children’s growth and help them thrive.
FOR CHILDREN
Amazing Athletes kept kids ages 3 to 12 engaged all day with fun physical activities. More than 60 children enjoyed pizza and snacks while their parents participated in discussion groups and workshops.
A dedicated art room welcomed more than 50 children throughout the day. With guidance from an older art student, young participants—mostly ages 12 and up, but some younger ones too—explored watercolors and created their own paintings.
Upstairs, a two-person team led Mixed Martial Arts demonstrations for both girls and boys. More than 50 children jumped into the active sessions, building strength, flexibility, focus, and confidence while learning basic self-defense skills.
Additional games and puzzles were available in the main hall to keep the energy high and the fun going.
MORE HIGHLIGHTS
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Raffles: Six prizes were awarded—three at mid-day and three at the end of the event. Winners took home Amazon Fire HD 8 tablets, $50 gift cards, a personal grooming kit, and a Ninja food processor.
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Delicious Meal: Guests enjoyed a traditional meal of tandoori chicken, kabobs, eggplant, rice, and naan.
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Giftcards: Eligible attendees received one $10 giftcard per workshop and discussion group.
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Prayer Space: Private prayer areas were available throughout the day.
We are thankful to our community members who attended and let us know how much the information and activities were helpful and enjoyable.
Please Enjoy these Snapshots from the Busy Day
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