A new parent group formed at Rogers Elementary School this year let its presence be known Saturday as hundreds gathered for what was known as Fun Day.
The day included a puppet show, square dancers, children's games and a pork burger lunch and was held behind the school.
"We wanted to strengthen the Rogers community with both the parents and those who don't have kids in the school," said John Johnson, who is a leader in the parent group. "This is a good way for people to come and get to know everyone."
He said this event is a step to be more neighborly to each other.
"Then when you are home and you see kids outside you know them," Johnson said.
Rogers Principal Mick Jurgensen was encouraged the school parents stepped up and organized the event. He said this is the first parent-driven event at Rogers in several years.
"It helps kids know that the community cares for them and that they are important," Jurgensen said.
Rogers has a high level of children living in poverty and Johnson said donations helped make the event entirely free, which was important to the parent group.
Johnson, who expected approximately 500 people at the event, was encouraged at the turnout early on. He said plans are in the works to make this an annual event and parents are also planning more events throughout the year that will bring the community together.
"This is better than expected since this is our very first one," Johnson said.
