On Friday, February 13, 84 individuals gathered at Willard Community Center for our Pal-entine’s Brunch, a celebration of friendship, belonging, and community.

The event brought together community members, children and families from our Early Explorers classrooms, participants from our adult and senior program, and Willard staff. Around shared tables and warm meals, laughter filled the room and meaningful conversations unfolded across generations.

What makes Pal-entine’s Brunch special isn’t just the food, it’s the opportunity to slow down and connect. Families shared smiles with older adults. Longtime participants welcomed new faces. It was a powerful reminder that Willard is more than a building; it’s a place where relationships grow.

Events like this reflect our mission of helping area residents grow, connect, and contribute. From our youngest learners to our older adults, every program at Willard is rooted in creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger than themselves.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the morning so meaningful. Community is built in moments like these, one shared meal, one conversation, one smile at a time.