October highlight by Erin Bailey - Youth Exchange Chair
The Kutztown Rotary Club recently completed a pair of festive, community-centered events that brought out the spirit of Halloween and Thanksgiving! Trick or Treat on Main Street on October 23 and a Thanksgiving meal service event on October 30.
First up was the return of the Trick or Treat night on Main Street, hosted by the Kutztown Optimist Club on October 23. This was the first time since 2019 that the beloved event—formerly known as “Merchant Night”—made its comeback, and it did not disappoint! With over 75 merchants, clubs, and organizations handing out candy, Main Street was bustling with hundreds of costumed kids, spooky characters, and parents joining in the fun. The Kutztown Rotary Club members came prepared, thanks to a hearty potluck organized by Holly at the Hildenbrand Funeral Home parking lot. Energized by the delicious food and fun company, club members cheerfully handed out candy and joined in the Halloween spirit. Creative and spooky costumes filled the street, and laughter echoed along Main Street as neighbors reconnected for a night full of community fun.
The Halloween celebrations continued a week later on October 30, when Rotary Club members gathered to pack Thanksgiving meal boxes for families in need. The boxes were later brough to Friend, Inc. Community Services. The club filled 12 boxes with all the Thanksgiving essentials—stuffing mix, sweet potatoes, green beans, and more. Leftover candy from Trick or Treat night also made its way into the boxes, adding a sweet suprise to each holiday meal. It was a wonderful opportunity for Rotary members to give back and spread joy ahead of Thanksgiving.
For over 50 years, Friend, Inc. has been a vital support system for families in our area. The organization provides food support through a self-select food and pet pantry, a Kutztown University Student Pantry, an Alburtis Mobile Market, and emergency food delivery. Friend, Inc. also offers utility and housing assistance, medical support, budget counseling, career education, and collaborates with other service providers to meet community needs.
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