Clermont's 'Year of the Youth' Festival Unites Community in Celebration

On Saturday, November 8, McKinney Park at 801 Bloxam Avenue in Clermont transformed into a vibrant hub of activity as the community gathered for the inaugural 'Year of the Youth' festival.

 

Robin Brown, a Clermont native, conceived the festival after a heartfelt discussion with her minister, Bishop Sean Johnson, about the challenges facing youth in the Lincoln Park area.

 

Collaborating with community leaders like Sharon Keys and Mayor Tim Murry, Robin aimed to create an event emphasizing love and unity for the city's children.

 

“We have a concern for the youth in the Lincoln Park community. We want to put an emphasis on love for children. We want to provide a fun and free day for them to come together. Come together as a city,” Robin expressed.

 

Sharon echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of community unity and peace.

 

A highlight of the festival was the keynote address by Devin Jarrett, who shared his transformative journey from a troubled past to becoming a mentor for at-risk youth.

 

At 16, Devin was convicted of serious crimes and served 31 years in prison.

 

He credited the victim’s family and his faith for his release and now dedicates his life to guiding young people away from similar paths.

 

“The family gave me a second chance. God himself gave me a second chance, and I plan to make the best of that opportunity,” Devin stated.

 

He urged the youth to set positive goals and resist negative influences.

 

Since his release seven months ago, Devin has established ministries for at-risk children and participates in Lake County’s 'Teen Court' program, aiming to prevent others from making the same mistakes he did.

 

The festival featured a basketball tournament with gift card prizes and volleyball matches, with enthusiastic support from the South Lake High School Eagles cheerleaders.

 

Various non-profit and health organizations provided free information on health, food insecurity, homelessness assistance, and youth programs.

 

The Clermont Police and Fire Departments engaged attendees with crime prevention tips, community policing discussions, and fire engine tours.

 

A special acknowledgment was given to Walmart of Clermont for supplying free food, snacks, fresh fruit, and drinks, as well as staff to grill hamburgers, hotdogs, and barbecue ribs for guests.

 

Organizers aspire to make the 'Year of the Youth' festival an annual event, anticipating growth and the opportunities it brings to the community.

 

For more information on upcoming events and community initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the city's official website or contact local community centers.