For the 23rd year, the Clearwater Lions manned the grill for Camp Friendship’s annual steak fry fundraiser, which once again raised a personal record for the nonprofit organization True Friends to help support camper scholarships and programs.

 

This year’s fundraiser efforts brought in $26,600, breaking last year’s record by over $2,000.

 

“This is truly a community driven event and we are so grateful for the local support,” said Brooke Jensen, development officer for True Friends. “There’s a group of 30 local volunteers who help organize the steak fry each year. That’s in addition to the Clearwater Lions Club who grill the steaks.”

 

An Annandale Boy Scout Troop bussed the tables and cleared trash during the event.

 

Around 415 people attended the steak fry, which along with delicious food included 53 silent auction baskets, prize drawings for two limited edition paintings, a pizza oven, liquor cooler/cabinet and 43” smart TV, and cash prize winners of $1,000, $500 and five $100.

 

Attendees could also participate in a liquor raffle, which is similar to a meat raffle, in which tickets could be purchased for the chance to win bottles of liquor.

 

Along with all the volunteers, organizers expressed thanks to the individuals and local businesses who donated items for the silent auction, prize drawings and liquor raffle.

 

Camp Friendship is part of True Friends, a nonprofit agency providing life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for nearly 5,000 children and adults with disabilities annually. Locations include Camp Friendship near Annandale, Camp Courage near Maple Lake, Camp Eden Wood in Eden Prairie, and a northern Minnesota location. For more information visit www.TrueFriends.org or call 952-852-0101.