Fall Festival Block Party is Part of Victory Outreach's Mission to Take Back the City

Victory Outreach Church partnered with the Salvation Army to turn Meyers Street between Heacock and Indian avenues into the site of a fall carnival on Halloween. Thousands of costumed and non-costumed residents gathered at the site to enjoy carnival style games, prize redemptions, costume contests, live entertainment and free food, refreshments and candy. Two bikes and two scooters were also given away, and the event was free. The ability to bring a completely free event to the community in this way was the result of "lots of prayer," said church member Greg Sparks. The fall festival was part of the church's ongoing mission to provide community outreach, especially in areas that need it the most, explained Sparks. Held once a few years back, the event on Halloween this year saw a revival as the church desired to continue to provide fun, safe, family-friendly community events. "We partnered with the Salvation Army because once a week, all the pastors in the city get together and meet for a pastors' prayer," said Sparks. "The question was raised: what does a united church look like? We're showing that we're united. It's not just one church coming out here and trying to make a difference, but this is something we can all come together for, under one common goal." Victory Outreach Church Pastor Mark Orellana said the event location was known for being "one of the highest crime areas in our city," and Sparks commented on why the church in recent months has focused on this area. The church has held multiple peace marches in this area since December of last year. "Since we've been evangelizing there, residents have said it has changed. They say crime has gone down and there's not so much chaos. They have had requests and prayers about us coming," said Sparks, who likened the church's efforts in this area to taking back the streets. Sparks himself is a testament to the good work the church has done. A member of the church for a few years now, he said he was struggling with a drug addiction and was on the verge of death when he went through the church's free recovery program. He explained why the church continues to work in these areas. "It's what we are called to do, is go into the inner cities and reach addicts and gang members. You know, they have family, and they're hurting just like everyone else. Everyone needs a sense of hope and direction." The church has held several peace marches this year and next month, on Dec. 22, has plans to hold a free Christmas toy giveaway, which will also feature a church service and play production. As for the fall festival event, which garnered attendance over 1,000, shared Orellana, "It was a huge success." The church thanks the City of Moreno Valley, who "was instrumental in this success," and gives a special thanks to the Moreno Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for their donation. "Thank you for taking interest in our event," said Orellana.