The Town of Ogden is proud to announce its partnership with Ogden resident and former elementary school teacher Sandra Shannon to host the 2025 Great Alphabet Hunt. The event will run from July 1 to July 31 in the Village of Spencerport. Shannon first introduced the idea in 2024 and is eager to build on last year’s participation and success as the event enters its second year.
Throughout July, participating village businesses will display a letter in their storefront windows. Children will be invited to find each letter and complete an official Alphabet Hunt printout to earn a small prize.
“Summer reading is so important to help kids retain what they’ve learned during the school year,” said Shannon. “That’s why I created the Great Alphabet Hunt. It gives families a fun and educational way to explore local businesses and build literacy skills. It is fun for kids and also brings more foot traffic to the Village of Spencerport.”
Now in its second year, the Great Alphabet Hunt is releasing new promotional videos featuring Sandra Shannon, Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale, Ogden Police Chief Travis Gray, and 13WHAM News Anchor Matt Molloy. The videos introduce a storyline in which the letters of the alphabet have escaped and are scattered throughout the Village of Spencerport, calling on kids to help find them.
“When Sandra first brought this idea to me, I absolutely loved it and knew the community would too,” said Supervisor Zale. “This year, the Town is proud to partner with Sandra to support this incredible initiative that encourages learning and promotes our local businesses.
“I want to thank Sandra for turning this concept into reality and dedicating her time and effort to something that truly makes a difference. I also want to thank Chief Gray and Matt Molloy for helping us spread the word. I encourage families to join the hunt and have fun.”
The Alphabet Hunt includes a printable activity sheet designed for various ages and skill levels. Parents can encourage their children to color the letters, trace them, or write a word or sentence that begins with each one.
“Last year’s event saw strong participation and enthusiastic feedback from families. Most importantly, this is about getting kids outside, having fun, and learning something too. Thank you to Supervisor Zale and all local business and community partners for all their collaboration and support. Happy hunting, everyone,” concluded Shannon.
To learn more about this exciting community initiative, visit the Great Alphabet Hunt website at thegreatalphabethunt.org. For questions, email us at info@thegreatalphabethunt.org.
