Big Lake Community Education was recently recognized by the Minnesota Community Education Association (MCEA) with a Project Award for its inaugural Summer Kickoff event held this past June. 

Project Awards are given out each year by MCEA to highlight on-going activities or one-time events from the previous year that “exemplify the concept of Community Education.” Award winners demonstrate a commitment to driving positive change in the community, and serve as an inspiration of what can be made possible through Community Education.

The goal of the Summer Kickoff was to get families excited for summer and bring Big Lake Community Education, the school system, and its partners to the forefront for summer programming. It was free to attend and open to all community members, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Big Lake Spud Fest.

The event featured lots of fun for children and their families to enjoy, including Ninja Anywhere’s portable ninja course and inflatables, a petting zoo, face painting by the Big Lake Ambassadors, yard games, and food vendors and concessions. Numerous local organizations and Community Education instructors were also on site to provide activities and showcase their summer class offerings.

Nearly 800 people attended the first year event, far exceeding the organizers goal of 300 attendees. Community Education staff are looking forward to continuing this new tradition and expanding it in years to come. 

Project Award submissions were evaluated by the MCEA awards committee based on the criteria of cooperation and teamwork, use of resources, achievement, and community impact.