PRESTO! New program mixes magic, STEM, arts for youth
Summer in Jasper County just became a little more magical with the newest program being offered by United Way of Jasper County.
The non-profit is hosting the Jasper Co. Academy of Magic Camp from June 20-24 for children 8-12 years old. The Academy of Magic will feature the award-winning and nationally recognized Discover Magic curriculum which disguises a STEM and arts program as magic classes. (Learn more about the curriculum at www.discovermagic.com) “We wanted to do something to reach children in Jasper County, offer something special and different that would not only spark imaginations but offer life-long skills,” said Jessica Lowe Vokes, UWJC Executive Director. Each course offered by Jasper Co. Academy of Magic will feature a magic trick and teach one of the eight traits of a “true magician” – respect, preparedness, authenticity, enthusiasm, creativity, humility, confidence and giving. While children will learn card tricks, make things disappear and much more, they will actually be building self-confidence, improving communication skills, using their creativity and developing friendships. The magic camp will be Monday-Friday, June 20-24. The schedule includes four days of classes wrapping up with a wand presentation and party on the final day. Each day of camp children will learn two magic tricks and magical traits, have practice and presentation time, play games, have a chance to earn rewards, and receive a snack. Children will learn card tricks, coin tricks, make things disappear and reappear, learn mentalism and much more. Registration for Academy of Magic is $75 per child and includes magic tricks, bag and folder, all supplies, daily snacks and a wand presentation and party. The program nationally costs more than $250 per child but it is being sponsored by United Way of Jasper County with the help of Discover Magic, private donations and free use of the arboretum from Project AWAKE. “We know $75 may be too much for some families. We do not want the cost to be a barrier for children to participate so we have a scholarship program established to help provide support and it is a simple process to apply for a scholarship,” she said. To apply for a scholarship, parents and guardians can email unitedwayjc@gmail.com. A limited pool of funds are available to assist with reducing cost of registration fees for families. The United Way is applying for additional grant funds, seeking sponsorships and accepting donations to help lower the cost of the program even more. For details, to register or make a donation visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/uwojc/event/850782/ |
“Myself and the United Way board believe we have a really fun, educational and important program with the Jasper Co. Academy of Magic,” Lowe Vokes said. “Support from the community will help us expand the program throughout the county. I’m really excited to see the program take shape, work with children and share my love of magic with others. It is going to be a great time at our first session of the Academy of Magic.”
MORE DETAILS: WHO: Boys & Girls 8-12 years old* CLASS SIZE: 12 spots are open for the first session of Jasper Co. Academy of Magic CLASS SCHEDULE 1-3 p.m. Monday, June 20 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, June 21 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, June 22 1-3 p.m. Thursday, June 23 WAND PRESENTATION & PIZZA PARTY - 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, June 24 (Pizza party - Cheese, Sausage, Pepperoni will be ordered) - Child is allowed to bring a special guest to this event! LOCATION: Newton Arboretum 3000 N. 4th Ave. Newton IA 50208 *Children must be 8 years old and no older than 12 years old by registration deadline on June 15, 2022. |
Newton Cares Classic - July 21, 2022
Newton Cares Classic is returning for its third year with more celebrities, on-course prizes, player gifts and of course a whole lot of fun.
The Gregg Young Auto Center presents Newton Cares Classic is a charity golf tournament unlike others in Jasper County. With NCC you are treated like a star and you get to golf with stars too! Proceeds raised from Newton Cares Classic help dozens of Central Iowa programs from food assistance to homeless prevention, before and after school programs to counseling for victims of domestic abuse, to supporting accessible parks and recreation programs. When you golf in the Newton Cares Classic you are not only having fun on one of the best golf courses in Iowa, you are changing lives and having a positive impact. Be sure to mark your calendars for July 21, 2022. See you on the golf course! |
LEARN MORE: http://www.newtoncaresclassic.org/www.newtoncaresclassic.org/
United Way of Jasper County Block Party - TBA
The annual campaign is the United Way's largest fundraising effort. The annual goal is $315,000 and the funds are used to support health and human services programs for Jasper County residents. To help kick off the campaign, the United Way hosts an evening bringing together community with the BLOCK PARTY!! The Block Party features family-friendly fun, GIANT games, face painting, a volunteer far and more. Every one is welcome to come and celebrate great things about Jasper County, learn how to get involved and have a fun night out!
United Way Book & Bake Sale - TBA 2022

The United Way of Jasper County Book & Bake Sale happens every Octoberl. The books are donated by individuals to the United Way so there is quite the variety offered each year. From children's books to best sellers, cook books to romance novels, mysteries to how to more than 1000 books are available. Books are $1 each unless marked. Baked goods vary from cupcakes to pies, bars to cookies and other delicious goodies. All funds raised support the work of the United Way. If you'd like to donate some books or baked good goods, contact the office at 641-792-1684.