People Matter Community Carnival

The Third Annual People Matter Community Carnival is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 11, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm on the grounds of Wachter Middle School in Bismarck.

Here is a little history. People Matter began through a simple conversation between Pastor Les Wolfgram, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, and Wachter Middle School principal, Lee Ziegler, considering how to meet the growing needs of people in our community. That conversation led to the first People Matter Community Carnival held at Wachter Middle School in May 2017. The purpose of the event is to introduce families of school-age children to the many free services that are available to help them. Bismarck Police officers and firefighters participated along with 17 help organizations and churches. Families with school-age children connected with services that could help them enjoy a better life. The carnival atmosphere was enhanced by free food, prizes, bounce houses, a dunk tank, and various games and activities. Wachter Middle School staff and community leaders were dunk tank “guests of honor.” This first event drew over 500 attendees. In 2018, the event grew as 45 community organizations were represented with well over 1,200 people in attendance. Families have been impacted as they learn about services available to them and as they build relationships with people who are here to help. This year’s Community Carnival event is Saturday, May 11th from 11:00 am to 2 pm. This event has provided a great opportunity for Shepherd of the Valley to reach out to our neighbors, inviting them to VBS and informing them that we are here to serve them with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Follow us on Facebook at People Matter Bismarck.