Community partners celebrate McGruff the Crime Dog’s Birthday with free backpack give-away
Flint, MI – Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County, in partnership with Friends of Berston, are celebrating McGru7 the Crime Dog’s birthday with the Back-to-School S.H.A.R.E. (Safety, Health, Access, Resources, Education) Fair. The S.H.A.R.E. Fair will take place Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Berston Field House, located at 3300 N. Saginaw St., in Flint.
The free event is open to the public and will connect families with valuable safety, health, education, and community resources ahead of the upcoming school year. Community members will have the opportunity to meet with local organizations and service providers offering information and support for children and families, getting their S.H.A.R.E. Fair passports stamped along the way. After filling their passports, they’ll be entered for a chance to win a variety of great raffle prizes.
“At Crime Stoppers, we know that building a safer community goes hand in hand with supporting the health and well-being of our residents,” said Julie Lopez, executive director of Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County.
Lopez added: “People affected by crime or difficult circumstances often don’t know where to turn for help. The S.H.A.R.E. Fair brings trusted organizations together in one place, making it easier for individuals and families to connect with resources that can improve their safety, strengthen their well-being, and create opportunities for a brighter future. When people have access to support, information, and hope, our entire community is stronger.”
To celebrate McGruff the Crime Dog’s birthday, families can meet McGruff, take photos, win prizes, and enjoy a variety of fun activities including face painting, temporary tattoos and a special performance by the Smooth Steppers; in addition to free hot dogs, ice cream, and other light refreshments that will be provided throughout the afternoon. Backpacks filled with school supplies will be available for children while supplies last, helping students prepare for a successful start to the school year.
“We are proud to partner with Crime Stoppers and more than 30 organizations, businesses and community leaders who are committed to helping children, families and residents connect with the resources, services, and safety information they need to thrive, in a fun and welcoming environment,” said James Avery, executive director of Friends of Berston.
“Together, we are building a stronger, safer, and more connected Flint and Genese County,” Avery added.
Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend this free event and enjoy an afternoon focused on connection, resources and preparing local students for the school year ahead.
This event is made possible through the generous support of the following sponsors and
community partners: Hamilton Community Health Network, Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Genesee Health System, Ruth Mott Foundation, Job Corps, Genesee County 911, Genesee County Land Bank Authority, Genesee County Friend of the Court, the Genesee County Human Trafficking Task Force, St’Art of Art, Goodwill Industries of Mid- Michigan, Eagle’s Nest Academy, ENS, On Her Watch Inc., Meijer and donations from individuals and businesses.
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ABOUT CRIME STOPPERS OF FLINT & GENESEE COUNTY
The Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County’s mission is to partner with law enforcement, the media, and the community to help solve and prevent crime. It is an avenue for citizens to get information to law enforcement anonymously.
ABOUT FRIENDS OF BERSTON
Berston Field House is a community-based recreational center in Flint, MI, offering a variety of programs to support youth and families. With a focus on education, athletics, the arts and community service, Berston has been a community hub serving as the lifeblood of Flint and surrounding areas for generations. The Next 100 campaign aims to continue Berston’s legacy by building a state-of-the-art facility and renovating existing spaces to provide a place of hope and achievement for the entire community.
