The Wele Food Truck Festival of Highway Park, held May 2, brought a steady crowd to the community garden, with residents of all ages coming through over the course of the afternoon. Food trucks were set up throughout, along with desserts, ice cream, and lemonade. A jump castle kept kids busy, and the live entertainment was outstanding.
What stood out wasn’t just the turnout, but the interaction.
Neighbors were talking. Young people were engaged. There were moments where older residents shared perspective and experience—small conversations, but meaningful ones.
Organizations were also present. Hicoria Pines was on site, speaking with residents about their programs and the path to homeownership, adding another layer beyond the festival atmosphere.
The event itself was inspired by the Wele Youth Camp, specifically a “Shark Tank”-style exercise where students developed business ideas. The camp is part of the Wele Youth Program created by the Highway Park Neighborhood Council (HPNC), focused on underserved students in grades 10 through 12 across Highlands County.
The program centers on practical skills—communication, conflict resolution, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. Students are introduced to concepts like business planning, proposal development, and understanding financial systems. The goal is exposure—giving them tools and knowledge they may not otherwise encounter.
The festival served as a natural extension of that effort—bringing the broader community into the same space.
The event was organized by the Highway Park Neighborhood Council and Stand Together Never Alone, led by Evelyn Colon and Tiffany Green, with support from a committed group of volunteers. For more information: https://www.hpng.org/