UB’s Educational Opportunity Center will hold its annual Strengthening Families Celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 21 at the center’s downtown office at 555 Ellicott St.

This free neighborhood event aims to help parents and children further strengthen their bond as they enjoy activities and exhibits together. Now in its fourth year, the Strengthening Families Celebration strives to emphasize the importance of family relationships through a mix of fun, educational activities. The event also showcases the UBEOC’s commitment to the local community.

 “The focus of this year’s event is on strengthening families by concentrating on children’s health — both physical and mental — by providing parents and caregivers with pertinent material from community and social service agencies that will provide them with support, guidance and information,” says UBEOC Executive Director Julius Gregg Adams.

 The Buffalo Fire Department and the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library will be featured guests at this year’s event. Buffalo firefighters will give children and their families a tour of a working fire engine and teach UBEOC guests about fire safety in a hands-on environment. Children also will have the opportunity to have their photos taken with firefighters.

The library will showcase its popular Bookmobile, where kids can sign up for a library card and check out books.

Parents also can have some fun with their children at the carnival-style games and learning exhibits offered at the celebration. Kids can learn firsthand about the basic principles of science through “Fun with Science” scientific demonstrations, or increase their knowledge of wildlife by checking out the Zoomobile, a traveling exhibit from the Buffalo Zoo featuring species of live animals that children can handle, as well as touchable biofacts for a hands-on experience.  The event also includes an “Explore and More Children’s Museum” exhibit covering a wide variety of educational topics.

While these exhibits and games are aimed at children, parents will have the opportunity to learn as well. Free information will be available on the wide variety of adult programs offered by the UBEOC to help students improve their lives and the lives of their families. These include academic programs such as high school equivalency and academic review, as well as vocational training and services such as VITA tax preparation assistance. 

Register for the Strengthening Families Celebration by visiting the UBEOC’s website For more information, contact the UBEOC at (716) 645-1951.