On Saturday, March 16, The Gardere Initiative hosted the inaugural “Gardere Takes Flight” community celebration at Hartley/Vey Park, in Gardere. This event was a community collaboration funded by Brandon and Amy Foreman, the owners of Family Resource Group Inc., in Baton Rouge. In a vibrant display of community spirit, The Gardere Initiative united residents in a fun-filled day of joy, laughter, celebration, and the spirit of togetherness. This event was a showcase of the best of Gardere’s community spirit, featuring a kite-flying competition, kite-making, drone flying, an Easter Egg hunt, and delicious homemade meals. 

The event kicked off with various activities throughout the park, including kite-making stations, playground time, and visits with various vendors. Children and parents were encouraged to visit each vendor station to receive special goodies like propeller toys provided by the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR), camp guides, and the latest issues of Baton Rouge Parents magazine and Kids Scoop News. Amidst the festivities, delicious food provided by local community families brought people together around shared tables. The generosity of the community shone brightly as locals contributed their own time, energy, and food to provide a feast for all in attendance. 

“Gardere Takes Flight” was more than just an event; it was a community celebration to unite the community in the spirit of camaraderie, unity, and compassion. As residents came together to celebrate, they reaffirmed their commitment to building a brighter future. Attorney Caulette Jackson Guillard shared a story of encouragement as a former citizen of Gardere. She spoke about the importance of dreaming big and never settling for less in life. She encouraged children and families to take the opportunities they have in Gardere and seize them.

To unite the community even further, the Mayor of Baton Rouge, Sharon Weston Broome shared a special sentiment about what the city of Gardere means to her. She also left us with the sentiment, “Take this opportunity to enjoy this beautiful day, to enjoy a spirit of camaraderie and fellowship, and come together to make Gardere a wonderful place,” shared Broome.