CareFest Resource Type: Catalytic ministry opportunity (i.e., involvement in this project could spur a church on toward greater external focus and community engagement) Main Audience: Churches desiring a first-step involvement in a multi-church effort to provide service to the community Organization: Somebody Cares Tampa Bay Program: CareFest Dates: September Location: Anywhere Cost: Varies Website: www.carefestusa.com Summary: CareFest is a Christ centered community service day that brings together churches, businesses, community agencies, and cities with the common purpose of demonstrating God’s love in practical ways throughout the community. CareFest, mobilized by Somebody Cares Tampa Bay, began in Tampa Bay, Florida and has expanded to 11 cities. It mobilizes over 2,500 volunteers to serve their communities, and has expanded to a weeklong event. Held annually in September, area churches and ministries share God’s love with the community throughout the week in practical ways, such as delivering care packages and passing out bags of food. The week ends with a day of service in which hundreds of volunteers come together to work on house repairs and other neighborhood beautification projects identified by the church, other ministries, and government agencies. Free food and beverages are provided for everyone involved. A CareFest trophy is also awarded to the city with the most volunteers. In addition to participating in neighborhood service projects, participants are able to build relationships with people in need and the community at large. The website has a section dedicated to the benefits and long-term impact of holding a CareFest in your city. Organizations interested in participating can submit a request for more information about starting a CareFest in their own city. | 
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