ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — The Albany Recreation & Parks Department hosted a ‘Unity at the Park’ day for residents, neighbors and families on Saturday, Oct. 24 at Gordon Park.

The day-long event featured a community softball game and blacktop basketball, plus a kids zone with bouncy houses, mini golf, games and video game trucks.

There was also a ‘Stop the Violence’ Softball Game at 2 p.m.

The event had a live DJ, free food for kids, food trucks, and a tailgate setup so fans did not miss Saturday’s college games.

Officials described it as “a day for the whole community” focused on unity and stopping violence.

“We want to send a clear message. A clear message. That we can come together as one and we can work together,” said Steven Belk, director of the Albany Recreation & Parks Department.

Many leaders from Albany and Dougherty County also joined families and residents. Dougherty County Commissioner Chairman Lorenzo Heard says it’s important for children to see their community and its leaders come together.

“It is always good- even for kids- to see community leaders, commissioners from the county, commissioners from the city, judges, and all the rest. As well as business owners, just playing ball and having fun,” he said.

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