Great River Faith in Action has for some years been doing good things for area communities, helping families get established and others to stay in their homes.
They had their annual coming-out party last weekend, as 200 packed the Rockwoods Center for their annual fundraiser dinner.
Their theme was “Be the Bridge.”
Following an invocation from Pastor Dave Johnson of Grace Lutheran in Becker, the guests enjoyed a meal of steak and honey lemon chicken.
Then, it was on to hearing more stories about FIA and its doings in the communities.
Executive Director Darin Bohlken and Board Chair Jason Hammerstock spoke about FIA and shared stories of the people being helped.
They also explained the organization is getting everything done and reported no dollar is wasted that GRFIA receives.
Bill Arnold, formerly of Triple Espresso, lighted the evening with comedy. He had the audience laughing all through his half-hour performance, which is based on a light-hearted take of magic.
He ended his performance by telling Bible stories through a deck of cards which was not only funny, but a great ending to the show.
The night ended with some songs from Fr. Kevin Anderson from Christ Our Light churches in Princeton and Zimmerman and Roger Stang, Big Lake auctioneer, doing his thing.
Auction items included a fishing charter on Lake Superior for six persons, Guthrie Theatre tickets, rounds of golf, autographed sports items and numerous other outdoor items to celebrate the arrival of spring.
Sponsors for the evening included Pelco Machine, J & B Group, Becker Furniture, Victory Ministries, Northwest Machine, Darter Plastics, M & M Precision Machining, Power Engineering and Machining, Midwest Bus Parts, Sequel Response, Lutheran Trust and Mission Marketing.
“The evening was a huge success, with numerous guests exciting about being at the event every year,” said Bohlken.
GRFIA is a nonprofit organization aiding elderly and struggling families and individuals in Sherburne County and parts of Wright County.
“Our goal is to help the elderly we serve remain in their homes for as long as it is safey possible for them,” reports Bohlken.
He reports during the past 12 months the organization has provided 630 rides, covering 14,120 miles. The group has provided 3,905 other service hours for the elderly. And 72 families have been served through Furniture 4 Families.
They are provided withy transportation rides, light housekeeping, yard work and home repairs and friendly conversation. The group also provides furniture and household items to those in need.
GRFIA is a volunteer-based organization, they need volunteers to help out to provide services to their clients.
Persons needing help is asked to contact their Becker office at 1-763-263-0274.
They are located at 13074 Edgewood St. SE in Becker, 55308.
Their daytime phone is 1-763-263-0274. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Their after-hours phone (with voicemail) is 1-763-263-4277. Their email address is info@grfia.org.
GRFIA will be sponsoring another fundraiser event this summer - their annual 18-hole golf outing for groups of four. Persons wishing more information can contact their office.
