Loading ...Special Guests: Brandon Inge and Jim Price of the Detroit Tigers
Ann Arbor Businesses Find Unique Opportunity to Connect with Local Families
Ann Arbor, MI (August 21, 2010) – Recognizing a need for a forum where Ann Arbor area businesses can make a personal connection with local families, Children’s Orchard of Ann Arbor has partnered with March of Dimes to host the community’s first annual Family Expo. Dozens of local businesses have already signed up to exhibit on September 25, 2010 from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds in Ann Arbor.
“The past several years have been very difficult for Ann Arbor area small business owners and consumers alike”, said Taylor Bond, CEO of Children’s Orchard, a locally-owned national children’s resale franchise with a flag-ship store in Ann Arbor. “Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes to turn things around. The future of small business depends upon its ability to appeal to the local community and the community’s willingness to support its locally owned small businesses. We strongly support the Buy Local, Buy Michigan movements. That’s what the Children’s Orchard Family Expo is all about, providing an entertaining environment where local companies and organizations can connect with area families and give consumers the opportunity to see and sample their products and services first-hand.”
The Family Expo will include a stage with live music and entertainment, and fun activities for children and the entire family. Detroit Tiger’s third baseman Brandon Inge and Jim Price, the radio voice of the Tigers, will be signing autographs to benefit Jack’s Place for Autism.
“This expo is a great opportunity for us to reach out to families and encourage them to support their local economy,” said Price. “We’re excited to help support non-profits like Jack’s Place for Autism.”
Other activities at the expo will include a bounce house, face painting, fashion show and more. Exhibitors and Supporters of the event include Children’s Orchard, Newcomers Welcome Service, Ann Arbor State Bank, Domino’s Pizza, Bearclaw Coffee, Costco, Saline Area Schools, Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce, and many others. March of Dimes staff and family volunteers will be on hand supporting their mission by accepting donations at the door and managing a silent auction.
Organizations or businesses in the Ann Arbor area interested in exhibiting at the Family Expo should contact Jennifer Fields at (734) 994-9199 or jfields@childorch.com.
About Children’s Orchard
Founded in 1980, Children’s Orchard is the nation’s first franchise of gently used and new name-brand children’s items. With about 50 franchise locations, each Children’s Orchard location buys and sells quality used and new children’s brand name clothing, toys and accessories in an upscale retail environment. Children’s Orchard stores are designed to emphasize quality, value, comfort and commitment to the local community. For information about becoming a Children’s Orchard franchisee, please visit the Children’s Orchard website at www.childrensorchard.com or call (800) 999-KIDS.
