BELFAST — The Waldo County YMCA and Waldo Community Action Partners (WCAP) are partnering to launch a new back to school tradition, School-a-Palooza, on Sunday, Aug. 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Waldo County YMCA. This free community event is designed to help Waldo County students head back to the classroom feeling prepared, supported and motivated. 

"Centered around this year's theme, 'Kindness Rocks,' School-a-Palooza celebrates the power of community while providing families with the tools they need for a successful start to the school year," said a joint news release.

School-aged children attending the event will receive a free backpack and have the opportunity to fill it with essential school supplies, while supplies last.

Throughout the afternoon, families will enjoy a carnival-style resource fair featuring local organizations, games, activities, and services, including:

 A high-energy BMX freestyle stunt show by Dialed Action Sports beginning at 12:30 p.m., sponsored by Viking Lumber, Inc. Following the performance, riders will be available for photos and autographs.

 A "Kindness Rocks" painting station hosted by Waterfall Arts where children can create and take home their own painted kindness rock.

 Free back-to-school haircuts on a first-come, first-served basis. 

 School and family resource booths offering information and services to help students and families prepare for the school year.

 A free hot dog lunch for everyone.

"Our goal is simple—we want every child in Waldo County to walk into their classroom feeling confident, cared for and ready to succeed," said Russell Werkman, CEO of the Waldo County YMCA. "We hope the energy and inspiration of the BMX riders will encourage children to try something new when they get to school."

The event sends an important message to local students, according to Monica Pettengill, Director of Development and Community Services for WCAP.

"Every child deserves to know they matter and that their community is standing behind them," said Pettengill. "Education is one of the greatest investments we can make in our future, and School-a- Palooza is our way of showing students and families that they are supported every step of the way.”

School-a-Palooza is organized through a partnership between the Waldo County YMCA and WCAP and is made possible by dozens of volunteers, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community partners committed to supporting Waldo County students.

The organizers extend special thanks to Viking Lumber, Inc. for sponsoring the Dialed Action Sports BMX stunt show and to Waterfall Arts for inspiring creativity and kindness by helping children create their own "Kindness Rocks." Other major event sponsors include KSW Federal Credit Union and Mathew’s Brothers.

"Their generosity, along with the support of many community partners, helps make this inaugural annual celebration possible," said the news release.

Event Details

What: School-a-Palooza – Kindness Rocks 

When: Sunday, August 16, 2026 Time: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. BMX Freestyle Show: 12:30 p.m.

Where: Waldo County YMCA

Parking: Troy Howard Middle School

Admission: Free and open to all Waldo County families.

Families are encouraged to arrive early. Backpacks, school supplies, and free haircuts are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

For more information, contact Monica Pettengill, Development and Community Services Director, Waldo Community Action Partners, mpettengill@waldocap.org, (603) 338-6809, ext 1301.

About Waldo Community Action Partners

Waldo Community Action Partners (WCAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people build stronger, healthier, and more financially secure lives. Through programs that support food security, housing, transportation, early childhood education, family development, and community services, WCAP works alongside individuals and families to create opportunities, reduce barriers, and strengthen the Waldo County community.

About the Waldo County YMCA

The Waldo County YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The YMCA believes every person deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive by connecting people with the resources, relationships, and opportunities that build a stronger community—for a better us.