More Than 9,000 Attend 89Q’s Hope in the Park
It was estimated that more than 9,000 people filled Marathon Park in Wausau on Sunday, August 30, for 89Q’s Hope in the Park, featuring award-winning Christian recording artist Jeremy Camp.
The free community event brought together thousands of people from throughout North Central Wisconsin for an afternoon of music, family activities, food, ministry and community connection, continuing Hope in the Park’s tradition as one of the area’s largest free community events.
The generosity of those attending was also evident in an overwhelming response to the event’s food and personal-care-item drive benefiting the Community Action Partnership Pantry.
89Q had set a goal of collecting 1,000 items. At last count, approximately 2,800 items had been donated — nearly three times the original goal.
Thrivent had pledged $3 for each donated item, up to $3,000, meaning the community quickly reached the full $3,000 Thrivent contribution. An additional $1,000 gift to Hope in the Park was also pledged if the 1,000-item goal was reached.
“We are incredibly grateful,” said Coy Sawyer, General Manager of 89Q. “To see Marathon Park filled like that and come together for Hope in the Park was tremendous, but then to see our community respond with approximately 2,800 items for the pantry was something very special. This day happened because of the generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers and this community. We thank God for each of them.”
The strong turnout came despite scattered weather concerns leading up to Sunday. The day remained largely favorable for the event, allowing thousands to enjoy the activities and concert at Marathon Park.
Hope in the Park is made possible through the financial support of area businesses, organizations and individual donors, along with the work of volunteers and the 89Q staff and leadership team. Admission to the annual event remains free so families throughout the region can participate regardless of their ability to pay.
89Q is also inviting those who attended to share their experiences and photos. Hundreds of pictures, videos and comments from Sunday are already being shared on social media. Search Hope in the Park or visit 89Q Radio’s Facebook page to see highlights and community reactions from the event.
