Compass Community Health 25th Annual Park ‘N’ Party

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

By Ken Hirter

Despite the rain, over 500 people came out to celebrate the annual Park ‘N’ Party at Compass Community Health. The event was moved indoors due to the rain but that did not hamper the enjoyment of the fun and food although some of the children may have missed the Bouncy Castle – they were diverted by other activities including face-painting.

Kathy Allan-Fleet, Compass CEO opened the afternoon with a welcome greeting. Jack Bernacki, Manager of Pathways to Education was the Master of Ceremonies entertaining attendees and introducing all of the acts.

The Master of Ceremonies was the engaging Jack Bernacki (Pathways to Education) as he introduced all the acts. He did keep everyone entertained throughout the afternoon and early evening. Thanking all those who participated and putting together the 2024 Park N Party celebrating 25 years.

TAD (Take a Breath Singers) a group from Compass were there celebrating their 10th anniversary. The set of 8 numbers – all beautifully sung included “I can see you clearly now the rain has gone” and ‘These boots are made for walking’. The D.J. Francis was there spinning his tunes and had the folks clapping, tapping and/or dancing, it was so much fun.

Did you know that the first Park N Party was first introduced and held in 1999 at 554 John Street. At that time Compass Community Health was known as the North End Community Health Centre and at that time a much smaller venue. From a small event with one barbeque to today, with a Fire Pit crew of 4 men and a massive grill serving up delicious summer fare from Hamburgers and Hot Dogs with Vegan options it was delicious.

Compass moved from John Street to their present location in 2011. They have been serving Hamilton and the North End since 1987. They are Simply the Best!

A special thank you to our 2024 Compass Community Connection sponsors. These organizations are helping us make our community a better place through supporting connectedness and emergency aid. Without their support, the success of this year’s Park N Party would not be possible! Thank you to:

Platinum Sponsors: TD Canada Trust, Virk Personal Injury, Black and McDonald

Gold Sponsors: The Biking Lawyer, Granddad’s Donuts

Silver Sponsors: State Group, LIUNA Local 837, HOPA Ports

Bronze Sponsors: The Designer’s Printing

Thanks to all of the donors of the amazing door prizes for their generosity including: The Bard and Bear, the .Hamilton Tiger Cats, Merk Snack Bar, AGO, CNE, Little Ray’s Nature Centre, Forge FC, Fisher’s Pier 4 Pub, Centre 3, Citizen Kid, Art Gallery of Hamilton, Collective Arts, City of Hamilton Recreation, HMCS Haida, Blue Line Taxi, Hutch’s, 541 Eatery & Exchange, Landmark Cinemas, Medline, and Granddad’s Donuts.

Keep up-to-date with Compass news and information by following them on :

Facebook. @ CompasscommunityH/

Instagram @ Compassch

X @ Compass_ch

or @ www.compassch.org

* Please note that the summer season is not quite over yet. Mark your calendar for September 14th 2024. The North End Reunion is back to Bayfront Park and it will be held at the Macassa Bay Yacht Club, 80 Harbour Front Dr. Hamilton. NENA and the North End Breezes are proud to present the North Ender of the Year Award for 2024. We will also be recognizing all of the wonderful volunteers who have helped make the North End Breezes what it is today with our Volunteer Appreciation and we all be celebrating The North End Reunion.

See you there!