On August 7, 2016, families across the Hudson Valley gathered for the New Windsor Summer Festival. The Church of God hosted the event to support U.S. troops overseas. Admission required each guest to donate at least one item from the Troops Wish List. The list included toiletries, clothing, electronics, and comfort items to remind service members of home. The goal was 2,000 items for care packages, which the festival successfully surpassed.
Supporting Those Who Serve
Local veterans and active-duty members expressed their gratitude for the Church’s efforts. Retired U.S. Army Captain Michael T. Schardinger Jr. shared, “I came to the festival because I want to show support for the Church of God’s mission of reminding those of us living in the blanket of peace and freedom that we have to always support our brave men and women in uniform.”
Staff Sergeant Samuel Brown of the U.S. Marine Corps added, “As a veteran who was previously deployed, I really appreciated the care packages that were sent to me. They played a vital part in my personal up keeping. I truly want to thank the Church of God for getting involved and showing the sincere love and gratitude to us servicemen.”
Dancing, Games, and Community
Festival-goers enjoyed more than 30 live performances, from K-pop to flamenco to African dance. Food vendors and a bustling bazaar offered treats, clothing, and toys. Families joined cornhole competitions, played giant Jenga, and lined up at the dunk tank. Children enjoyed bouncing in inflatable houses and taking photos with superheroes and princesses. Smiles filled the day from start to finish.
Celebrating Service and Recognition
The festival also celebrated the Church of God receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. This prestigious honor recognized outstanding volunteer contributions worldwide. It highlighted the Church’s continued dedication to community service in the U.S. and abroad.
Encouraged by the event’s success, the Church extended the troop donation campaign through the end of the month. Members expressed joy in uniting the Hudson Valley community with the heart of God the Mother.
4 Responses
This was a fantastic event — and for a good cause! Looking forward to the Summer Festival next year!
This was a really great event for families. Everybody seemed to be having a great time and the weather couldn’t of been better. And after all, it was for an importance cause. The Church of God always hosts awesome events like this for the community.
Last summer, we traveled from up north to visit the festival. I remember it as a highlight of the summer for the community. Very happy to see these types of events for our servicemen. Keep up the good work!
It is really good for community!! i want to join this event in next year!