Field day provides free fun for community
By Alison James
alison.james@fct.wpengine.com
It all started with a desire to do something for the community. That desire grew into an event that is projected to reach 300-350 people this year.
The 23rd Annual Fun Field Day will be held at the Chucky Mullins Center June 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., hosted by the Franklin Civic Club.
Al Rorer took over as president of the club in 2008 or 2009.
“I wanted to start giving back,” Rorer said. “That’s why I joined the club.”
Rorer said he grew up in Chicago surrounded by gangs, violence and other social problems. It was his uncle who encouraged him to turn his life around, and Rorer has a desire to be that same influence on others.
The Fun Field Day reached more than 100 children last year – close to 300 hundred people total including adults, Rorer said. Sponsored by donations and fundraisers, the special event includes games, activities, door prizes, a 3-point shootout tournament, prizes and food – all free to those who attend.
“They see that people care,” Rorer said, explaining the importance of the annual event for local children. “Folks care about them. A lot of the kids don’t get to go anywhere, they don’t get to have amusement parks, so we decided we wanted to bring the fun to them.”
The event will also feature a motivational speaker, acting as a mentor for the children who attend.
Door prizes are a big hit at the Fun Field Day, which this year will include money and bicycles, depending upon the age group.
“Every year we try to do a little bit better,” Rorer said. “This year we have four different groups that will win. Ages 1-6, 7-12, 13-18 and adults.”
Activities will include a water balloon toss, the winners of which also win money prizes.
“We enjoy seeing their faces,” Rorer said.
For more information call 256-412-7950.
