In the vibrant heart of Gloucester City, a powerful alliance is sparking a vital movement, one that transcends mere celebration to profoundly impact the fabric of community and compassion. The Third Annual Head to Cleats Festival, collaboratively hosted by Nate’s Story and the Gloucester City Youth Soccer League (GCYSL), is poised to unfold at Proprietor’s Park on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This event is not just a festival; it is a beacon of hope, a testament to resilience, and a clarion call to action against the stigmas surrounding grief, trauma, and mental health.
Founded in memory of Nate, a beloved young soul whose untimely loss deeply affected his community, the festival represents a poignant blend of a mother’s enduring love and a community’s commitment to support its youth. Michele Kidd’s heartfelt narrative, which vividly illustrates the tragic impact of mental health issues, lays the emotional groundwork for the Head to Cleats Festival. By partnering with GCYSL, Nate’s Story leverages communal ties and the unifying power of soccer to foster a supportive environment. This collaborative festival not only promotes mental health awareness but also ensures that Nate’s legacy continues to inspire and light the way forward for others.
About Nate’s Story
Nate’s Story is a compassionate 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in memory of Nate, who tragically lost his life to suicide. Driven by a mission to dismantle the stigma surrounding grief, trauma, and mental health issues, Nate’s Story provides support, guidance, education, and perseverance to those affected. Its community outreach extends through various programs, including writing contests with Gloucester City High School, mental wellness initiatives at the annual Head to Cleats Festival, and educational workshops aimed at fostering resilience and positive mental health practices among teens. The Nate’s Story Club, a student-led high school group, emphasizes peer education and support within school environments, promoting a culture of understanding and acceptance. Additionally, Nate’s Story contributes to the Nate Kidd Scholarship fund, supporting students who have overcome hardships. Nate’s Story believes in the power of community involvement to effect change and encourages everyone to #KEEPTALKING about mental health to break barriers and build bridges of empathy. For those interested in learning more or participating in the organization’s efforts, contact information is readily available.
Head to Cleats Event Breakdown
Opening Ceremony of Reflection and Recognition
The festival will begin with an emotional opening ceremony from 12:30 to 1:00 p.m. It will dedicate a moment to remembering Nate and honoring the creative works of students from Gloucester High School who participated in the Nate’s Story contest. Their contributions, which highlight themes of resilience and hope, will be prominently displayed at the pier, serving as lasting reminders of the importance of mental health awareness.
Food and Refreshments: A Taste of Community
From gourmet treats to hearty meals, the festival’s food offerings reflect the diverse tastes of the Gloucester community. Here is a highlight of some of the local favorites and new culinary delights that will be featured at the event:
- Hogs and Dogs: Serving classic American hot dogs with a variety of toppings.
- The Cookie Momma: Home-baked cookies and creative charcuterie boxes.
- A Taste of Paradise Pizza, Pasta and Catering: Featuring delicious Italian staples from pizza to meatball sandwiches.
- Mister Softee and Kate’s Pops: For those with a sweet tooth, offering classic soft serve and delightful cake pops.
- El Auténtico Mercado: Providing authentic Mexican cuisine, promising a genuine taste from traditional recipes.
- Holy City Coffee: Serving artisanal cold brew for a refreshing boost.
These culinary stations not only satisfy the palate but also foster a spirit of togetherness as festivalgoers gather to enjoy meals prepared with love.
Music and Entertainment
Throughout the day, the park will resonate with the sounds of local bands and performers, creating a lively atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Gloucester City. The schedule features:
- Aftershock (1:00-1:45 pm): A versatile cover band playing hits across genres.
- Modern Mojo (2:00-2:45 pm): Known for their vibrant performances of popular songs.
- Cynical Z (3:15-4:00 pm): A blend of modern and classic hits to cater to all musical tastes.
- SoyBoyz Collective (5:00-5:45 pm): Ending the day with energetic performances from the 70s to contemporary hits.
Performances by local dance troupes and choirs, such as the Alice Costello School Choir and the Mulford Dance Studio, add a dynamic visual element to the auditory experience.
Information Tables: Knowledge and Support
Central to the festival’s mission are the information tables, which provide vital resources and education about mental health. Noteworthy participants include:
- Emotions Anonymous and Sage Therapy Services: Offering support groups and therapeutic services.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention NJ: Providing crucial information on suicide prevention.
- Green Compass and Camden County Mental Health and Addiction: Educating on wellness products and community health services.
- Renewal by Anderson and Street Tails Animal Rescue: Showcasing community services and local non-profit efforts.
These booths play a critical role in the festival, offering support, education, and direct access to mental health resources.
#KeepTalking
As Nate’s Story and the Gloucester City Youth Soccer League revel in the joy of community and music, the underlying purpose of the Head to Cleats Festival remains at the forefront—advocating for mental health awareness and breaking down the barriers of stigma. Michele Kidd, through Nate’s Story, implores everyone to partake not only in celebration but also in transformational dialogue about mental health.
This festival is a vibrant call to action, urging the community to remain open in conversations, to seek and offer help, and to support mental health initiatives. It stands as a testament to Nate’s legacy and the power of community solidarity in fostering an environment where no one has to suffer in silence. Join Nate’s Story and the Gloucester City Youth Soccer League on April 20 at Proprietor’s Park to honor, remember, and take a step forward in changing the conversation about mental health. Together, everyone can help ensure that mental health is prioritized and that support and compassion are accessible to all. Let’s #KEEPTALKING.
