Bringing Families Back was the first of a string of Fall events on our agenda. The Las Vegas temperature back up to 100 degrees proved to be no challenge for this event. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting a lot of new and curious folks who share our passion for animals. This fun-filled fair was focused on restoring a family's bond during this tough economic time. Hazel Mason Simon, Event Director and Author of Liberty Begins From Within was careful in selecting her vendors, making sure there would be only one vendor from each industry. It was a true honor to have her embrace and welcome Best Friends from our very first conversation in early August. Her goal of having a casual, relaxing and non-competitive environment was a success. I was thrilled to see kids repeatedly coming to our table just to look. Pure excitement filled their eyes as they told us about the dog or cat they had at home, the animal they felt a responsibility for, the animal they called their "baby" or "best friend." Sequoia is a 5 year old English mastiff –Her 16 year old person cared for her since she was 3 months old. Charlie is a poodle - His "person" smiles as she tells us that she walks, feeds and brushes him. What a joy these kids were! We established an area beside our table we called our "kids area." There, we placed the Best Friends Humane Education materials as well as the bio-book from the Adoptions department. Our frequent child visitors especially enjoyed this area and we spent some time going over age-specific literature with them. The magic show, Tae Kwon-Do and belly dancing demonstrations kept us entertained as well, especially since our table was right in the front of the stage! All in all, we met so many wonderful people, from the vendors to the event director and her team - and of course, the new friends we made. "You cannot make people aware of anything, but you can certainly provide an opportunity" - anonymous. With that thought, I am looking forward to all our upcoming opportunities! Written by Southern Nevada Ambassador Team Leader Jill M.
Being a part of Bringing Families Back Event as one of the vendors was a life changing experience for us. As a vendor we often complete an event by assessing whether it was either a profitable opportunity or not. However, at Bringing Families Back Event it left us feeling great seeing so many happy faces from the children having the greatest time in their lives.
Perhaps this is so special for them could have been a result of months of feeling a sense of tension from their parents without knowing why. There they were able to ride the pony, climb the walls, get beautiful face painting, listening to some great live music, watching performances, free ice cream, and having some delicious cakes. All of this without having to ask their parents for money which could get a 'No' respond.
We were across from the face painting table performed by volunteers and we noticed how happy the children were showing off their beautiful designs they got that made them feel special. It is so important for children to feel special.
We also noticed how relaxed some of the parents were and a sense of appreciation in their faces. They seem so happy watching their own child or children laughing, playing and being carefree and innocent.
We feel Bringing Families Back has giving the community the greatest gift that they can ever think of during this difficult time. At least on this particular day they all feel loved and there are still caring and loving human beings out there.
At the end of the event it did not matter how we did as a business; we did not care. What we cared about was we were so blessed to be there to experience this beautiful gift that we were so fortunate to have on that day. We thank Ms. Hazel Mason for being who she is and her greatest gift to our community.
Blessings to all.
AKG Naturals
My kids had so much fun. My daughter is still talking about the pony rides and my son is asking when we can go to the event again. He loved the rock climbing. -Jane (stay at home mom)
It was like a family reunion. I saw friends and family there that I had not seen in years. I will definitely go again next year! -Monica
It was fun! Especially the live entertainment and face painting. We didn’t go outside because we were caught up with inside events. The flowers by, Flower by Donka were beautiful. And Baked With Love Bakery has the best looking yummy cakes. – LatishA
I came to the event towards the end of day. It was apparent that the children were all having a GREAT time! And the vendors that I spoke with seemed very pleased with the event. The families that were still there, were having a great time, and they were in no hurry to leave!
It is because of all of the above, that I witnessed myself, that I decided to participate in the Bringing Families Back 2009 Event! I believe, based on what I saw, and all the hard work that Hazel is putting into this year’s event, it will be bigger and better! I look forward to seeing you there! Ellen
Thank you for organizing this event.
All the visitors that stopped at my booth commented on how much fun they were having. How awesome it was to see such a large variety of vendors all under one roof.
I personally enjoyed networking with everyone as well & had a GREAT time. Met lots of amazing people all working towards the same goal of family unity
Looking forward to working with you all again hopefully VERY soon.
Laura Mendoza Independant Tupperware Manager
Hi when I was first approached about doing The Bringing Families Back Festival all I saw were $$$, but to my surprise I got something else out of it. I got more business, and more connections. I chose to create something money cannot buy, a sense of community.
Sincerely,
Liz Peraza
JulieAnne's Coffee Van
Let it be known that I Love the BFB organization. Though they are in their youth-stage; the Heart is rightfully in place, and they are learning and developing fast.
The Founder-Leader [Hazel] is focused, and prepared to fast-forward the mission. Thus, i am readily willing to lend my public support and encourage you to do the same.
D. Patrick Smith
MBA/Global Management
Peace~Love~Joy~Friendship~Loyalty~Integrity~Blessings
