Zellous Hope, a community-rooted nonprofit known for its advocacy and grassroots empowerment, will host the Village CommUnity FUN Day from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025.
The event will take place at 507 Chartiers Ave in McKees Rocks, in the lot across from the Roxian Theater.
Event organizers are billing the day as a “vibrant celebration of community strength, healing, creativity and cultural pride.”
Event highlights will include:
- DJ entertainment from local talent;
- Vendors from small businesses, artisans and community resources;
- Games, inflatables, youth zones and giveaways;
- Face painting and a bounce house for children; and
- Free food and drinks, including Kona ice from 2-3 p.m., hot dogs, popcorn and cotton candy.
Event organizers said that every element is designed to connect hearts, uplift voices and honor the rich diversity of the McKees Rocks community and surrounding neighborhoods.
Founded in McKees Rocks by the late Denise Zellous, Zellous Hope was born from a desire to uplift marginalized voices and restore hope to underserved neighborhoods.
Zellous guided the organization until her death in March 2025. Today, her legacy lives on through every Zellous Hope program, outreach effort and community celebration.
Rani Irish, Denise Zellous’ eldest daughter, said she’s expecting a large turnout Saturday.
“My mother did this in years past and it was always one of the biggest community days McKees Rocks had,” Irish said Friday. “We’re expecting that to continue this year.”
Irish said the event will take place rain or shine. It’s possible that it could be moved inside if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Under Denise Zellous’ leadership, the organization became known for its work in mental health advocacy, peer recovery support, youth mentorship, crisis intervention and trauma-informed community healing. Her vision continues to shape Zellous Hope’s mission: to ensure that every individual has access to the care, dignity and opportunity they deserve.
For information about Saturday’s event, call 412-539-9185.
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