8-13-22 Manitou Park 30th Family Day by Rob Taylor

Hi, my name is Robert Taylor. I am the President of the nonprofit organization Unity Pride, which is centered around youth development. I started a basketball program at Manitou Park in 1992 with one basketball court, no playground, and 100 people coming out to play.

This year, I will be hosting our annual Family Day at Manitou Park in South Toms River, NJ. I started Family Day in 1995, 27 years ago. When I started this event, I wanted to bring the community together (all different races, religions, and beliefs) for a good time! I wanted us to celebrate each other and give the kids something to look forward to. I wanted to create a safe place filled with so much joy, laughter, and the most important thing of them all: love. As a community, we exhibited just that and Family Day became an annual thing that the community appreciated and supported. Here we are, 30 years later, with a beautiful park and a diverse community.

I am asking for the community’s support to make this our biggest Family Day yet! All proceeds will go to this function and towards food, drinks, games, decorations, gift cards, school supplies, etc. I truly thank everyone who has donated and supported thus far, and I thank anyone else who makes the decision to make a contribution. Big or small, everything is appreciated as we continue to uplift, support, and inspire our youth. Let’s all come together, show up, and show out!

To a good time and to 30 years, thank you!!

Robert Taylor