UM-Flint invites families to campus for free Touch-A-Truck event, Sept. 20

If you asked a child to plan a perfect Saturday, they might start by getting into the driver's seat of a fire engine, then take a ride up in a utility truck's cherry picker bucket. Next it's time for face painting before jumping into a bounce house. All that excitement has worked up an appetite - the only answer is free hot dogs. Grab a balloon, watch a helicopter land up close, dance to some music … that's a pretty nice way to spend a weekend, let alone an afternoon.

That childhood dream will become a reality as the University of Michigan-Flint Department of Public Safety turns the campus into a place of family fun and community connection with Touch-A-Truck. The 12th annual event will take place, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept. 20, at the William S. White Building parking lot at Saginaw St. and 5th Ave.

Touch-A-Truck offers children of all ages the chance to explore police cars, fire trucks, and other utility vehicles up close, while providing a safe, community-focused environment to interact with law enforcement. This event is free and open to everyone.

"This event, which our students support through volunteering, is about building community," said Ray Hall, DPS director. "Encouraging unity isn't about everyone being the same; it's about everyone belonging to the same community. Unity is not conformity, after all. So, let's create positive bonds and have some fun."

For many, the highlight of Touch-A-Truck is the arrival of a Michigan Medicine Survival Flight helicopter. This helicopter provides rapid transport of critically ill and injured patients. Its team of flight nurses is dually licensed as paramedics and is nationally known for its skill and expertise. Attendees can watch the helicopter fly and land before touring the controls and lifesaving equipment.

However, participation isn't limited to only first responders and law enforcement. Tow trucks, cranes and other heavy-duty vehicles including cargo and garbage trucks from local businesses will be on-site for kids to explore.

"Touch-a-Truck 2025 is all about building relationships, creating memories, and having fun together as a community," Hall said. "Events like this remind us that public safety is more than just our daily work, it's about trust, connection, and the joy of bringing all people together."

Additional attractions include free hot dogs, bottled water, face painting, balloons, a bounce house, music, child identification kits and more activities for all ages.

For additional information about the event, contact Gaye Stover, DPS administrative assistant, at 810-762-3330.