Making signs for the prizes that will be a part of this year's "Back-To-School" fair, Alachua County school staff are hard at work for Saturday's event at the O'Connell Center --a new venue as they join forces with the organizers of the "Stop the Violence" rally.

"This seemed like a natural step to move into a bigger venue where we're going to have access to probably 5 to 6,000 adults and students," said Alachua County Schools Spokesperson Jackie Johnson.

"It's an answer to my prayers because now we are going to have an opportunity to reach all of the community," said "Stop The Violence" Organizer Rev. Karl Anderson.

As the event has grown, Rev. Karl Anderson has moved his rally from the MLK Center to the O'Dome. But, the message remains the same.

"We want our kids to realize there are other methods of handling conflicts other than acting out violently," said Anderson.

Saturday's unified event will offer free food, fun activities and live music in addition to speakers with strong messages.

"Talk a little about consequences for kids that commit crimes, the more crimes they commit the harder it is for them," said GPD Corporal Orlando Alvarez.

A message that has synergy with the goals of education. There will also be useful information for parents as they get ready for Monday morning. Parents will be able to get bus schedules, get school calendars, parent guides, sign their children up for after school care, etc.

There will also be free immunizations for children. The first 1,000 kids to arrive and stay to the end of the event can sign up for a free backpack with school supplies.