A coalition of Brooklyn-based organizations is coming together this weekend to celebrate community, creativity and connection in the heart of Fort Greene.
On April 11, The Legal Aid Society and BRIC Arts Media will host “Community Joy Family Day + Forum” at BRIC House, marking 150 years of Legal Aid’s work serving New Yorkers. The free, public event is presented in partnership with Brooklyn Org, Brooklyn Book Bodega and Booklyn.
In a statement, organizers said the day is designed to bring Brooklyn residents together through shared experiences rooted in joy, creativity and civic engagement.
They added that it will “uplift community joy and connection, highlighting the history of our community caring for one another and envisioning the Brooklyn we want to build together.”
Families attending can expect a mix of entertainment and hands-on activities. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., children will be able to select and take home free books, part of Brooklyn Book Bodega’s mission to expand literacy across the borough. The event will also feature live music from Building Beats DJ Pr3tty P, a book reading by local authors and illustrators and art programming for all ages.
Booklyn will host zine-making and vision board workshops, offering attendees a chance to explore storytelling and self-expression. Free giveaways, food and raffle prizes will also be available during this time.
The event will conclude with a community forum moderated by Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, where residents can engage directly with local leaders and share their perspectives on the borough’s future.
The forum, scheduled from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., will give residents an opportunity to “share the needs of the community, solutions to community issues, and their vision of the Brooklyn they want to build with local elected leaders.”
Confirmed participants include Council Members Crystal Hudson and Rita Joseph, Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest, and representatives from the offices of Council Member Chi Ossé and State Sen. Zellnor Myrie.
“Community Joy Family Day + Forum at BRIC House” is free and open to the public. Advance RSVP is appreciated but not required.
