Great River Faith in Action’s Annual Gala was  held Sat., March 22 at Rockwoods in Otsego.  The theme was Hat’s Off to You and everyone attending was encouraged to wear a hat.  

“We had hat contests and recognized supporters, clients and volunteers giving a ‘Hat’s Off’ to each of them,” said GRFIA Executive Director, Maureen Baty.  “Our entertainer was comedian Bill Boronkay.” 

Attending were 248 guests who came out in support of Faith in Action’s work.  The attendees bid on nearly 80 silent auction items and five live auction items including a J.J. McCarthy autographed jersey framed, and a BWCA trip for two fully outfitted.  

GRFIA highlighted stories including when one of their volunteers found an elderly widow who had fallen in her home.  The volunteer and a staff member came  and called 911, and the woman was taken to the hospital.  

“She was okay, yet this shows the importance of our volunteers that may be the only ones that visit with these folks,” said Baty. 

GRFIA also recently helped a single dad who was so grateful that the organization assisted him by donating basic furniture for he and his young son after going through homelessness.  

“I just wanted you to understand how much it meant that Faith in Action literally became Faith in Action for my son and I when we needed most,” the dad said.

Faith in Action has been serving the local area for over 20 years. They are grateful to God for providing for this organization and allowing them to support those who really need it in the neighborhoods they serve.   

“This event was a success and we are so grateful since we are community supported,” said Baty.  “We do not receive government funding and are so blessed to have a community that supports this important work.”

Event Sponsors were Pellco Machine in St. Michael, Darter Plastics in Becker, and many more.

If one is interested in volunteering at GRFIA, please reach out!  They assist with tasks such as: mowing, respite, drives to medical appts, grocery shopping, friendly visits, snow removal, group outdoor projects and more, as their volunteers are able.  All at no cost.  

Call 763-263-4277 or visit www.grfia.org if interested in supporting this valuable organization.