Annual ‘Soberfest’ will celebrate 24th year of substance-free fun

FLINT, MI—Jayne Atwell is excited about this year’s Soberfest.

“It’s inspiring to see that people believe in what we’re doing with Soberfest,” said Atwell, UAW Local 598 work and family representative. “Each year we gain more support from individuals and organizations in the community that recognize the value of having a family-friendly event to celebrate sobriety. Year after year, they come back to help us make this event happen, and we are beyond grateful.”

Soberfest, now in its 24th year at UAW Local 598, celebrates family, food, and fun in an alcohol-free environment. The event is organized by Maintaining and Organizing Support Together, a support group that operates as part of UAW Local 598. Local 598 represents workers at General Motors’ Flint Assembly plant.

Set to take pace July 15, the picnic event will feature activities and entertainment for adults and children. 

Activities will include horseshoes, a magic show, softball, and professional wrestling. Kids can also fish in a trout pond and will have an opportunity to win a free bike. All proceeds will fund the MOST Group of Local 598’s Holiday Food Baskets.

Entrance to Soberfest is free and the event will be held at Union City Ball Fields, located at 4151 Torrey Road in Flint. The event begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. This year, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., MTA will provide bus transportation between Flint Metal Center on Bristol Rd. and the Ball Fields. 

The event also offers students an opportunity for community service hours. For more information or to volunteer, contact Jayne Atwell, George Washington, or Cheryl Dawson at (810) 236-6834.