On Saturday, October 25, the Americus Rotary Club kicked off their first Unity in Community Peace Day; a day of celebration, reflection, and creativity. The free, family-friendly event invited the entire community to gather under the theme: “One Community, Many Voices, Shared Peace.” The event was the brainchild of the club’s Peace Committee, and the planning team was hopeful that the theme would resonate with community members. Not only were these hopes met, but they were greatly surpassed, as over 275 people poured into Rylander Park to spend the afternoon together with people they knew, and people they had never met before.

Peace Day began with a symbolic peace march, bringing together faith leaders and residents who walked in together from across the city, converging at the Rotary Peace Pole in Rylander Park. These faith leaders, representing the diversity of our community, addressed pressing community challenges - such as violence and poverty - and encouraged attendees to be part of the solution.

Community organizations, businesses and churches hosted hands-on peace activities for adults and youth alike. Kindness conversations, peace pledges, friendship bracelet-making and conflict resolution games took place alongside service projects to benefit area seniors living in nursing homes. Local service-based nonprofit organizations hosted information tables to raise awareness about free resources that are available to support individuals and families. An array of cultural performances highlighted the diverse backgrounds of community members and kept the crowd engaged and entertained throughout the afternoon; West African drumming, an area elementary school chorus, a youth praise dance team, a group participation cultural journey that taught attendees dances from around the world, and a church group of folk/gospel musicians. Other activities that both adults and kids enjoyed were face painting, learning to make dreamcatchers, painting kindness rocks, and storytelling. Area vendors were also on hand showcasing artistic, culinary, and fun creations.

In addition to free hot dogs donated and cooked on-site by the Americus Fire Department, area civic groups and churches provided free drinks, chips, and snacks . Area businesses provided freshly made popcorn, cotton candy, and coffee. Area vendors were on hand showcasing artistic, culinary, and fun creations.

“Peace isn’t just a concept - it’s something we build together, moment by moment,” said Laura McConatha, Peace Chair and Service Chair of the Americus Rotary Club. “This festival was a joyful reminder that when we show up with open hearts, we can create something truly powerful - a stronger, more compassionate community.”