Lake Co. YMCA Back-To-School Blast Off draws 800

More than 800 people came out to enjoy the Lake County Family YMCA's free Back-to-School Blast Off at the Waukegan Y Aug. 20.

Backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to the first 300 children who attended.

Participants waited in line patiently to enter the event which featured face painting, inflatable bouncers, a DJ, obstacle course and a special K-9 unit demonstration with Waukegan Police Officer Mahoney and Matt, his German-shepherd police dog.

This was the second year the Y has offered the Back-To-School Blast Off, but this year was the first during which school supplies were distributed.

Supplies came from generous community sponsors including: Lake County Family YMCA members, Ernie Peterson Plumbing, Legat Architects, Peterson Products, Stauber Hardware and Power Maintenance.

The Lake County Family YMCA is a cause-driven nonprofit that strengthens the community through programs and services that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Founded in 1892 as a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit, our association is comprised of the Central Lake YMCA in Vernon Hills, Northern Lake YMCA in Waukegan and Early Head Start in Waukegan.