Photo: Pastors at Unity Fest presenting Cook County Commissioner Deer (2nd District) with the Government Recognition Award and celebrating his recently successful double lung transplant surgery. Shown are (L-R): Host Pastor and event organizer Rev. Dr. Floyd D. James, Sr. Pastor/Teacher, Greater Rock MBC; Commissioner Deer; Pastor Robin Hood, Redeemed Outreach; Pastor Chris Ferguson, Greater St. Stephenson MBC; and Pastor Cornelius Parks of Good Hope Free Will Baptist Church.
In a remarkable display of community spirit, eight West Side churches hosted a Unity Fest event to foster peace and support local youth preparing to return to school. The event was a day of inspiration, empowerment and good vibes.
The fest, which took place on Sunday, was held on the grounds of the Greater Rock Missionary Baptist Church on the West Side.
Led by the visionary efforts of Pastor Floyd James, Sr. of the Greater Rock Church, and participating churches, including Good Hope Freewill Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Cornelius Parks, Greater Galilee Missionary Baptist Church led by Pastor Steve Spiller, and Greater St. Stephenson Missionary Baptist Church guided by Pastor Chris Ferguson, about 500 bags of school supplies were given to school kids. There was also free food and clothes distributed, and participants even got to enjoy a Gospel concert.
Indeed, the Unity Fest fulfilled its promise as a haven of hope and renewal, with neighbors and visitors gathering for a day filled with community connections.
The youth participated in activities like 3-on-3 basketball and various games. They even got free haircuts and access to vital informational resources. All these were provided to give the kids a head start in enjoying a successful and fulfilling school year.
Honoring the Pillars of Our Community
Beyond that, the Unity Fest recognized the unwavering dedication of individuals who have transformed the community through service. State Representative of the 9th District Lakesha Collins, Cook County Commissioner of the 2nd District Dennis Deer and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) District Chief of Safety and Security Jadine Chou were presented awards for their outstanding work and effort in the community.
Additionally, Brenda Palms, Founder/President & CEO of North Lawndale Employment Network, and Donella Carter, Principal of John Milton Gregory Academy, were honored for their significant contributions to the community.
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