Franklin County retirees earn state recognition

By Staff
Melissa Cason
The Franklin County Education Retirees Association was recognized in Montgomery at the association's annual state meeting.
President Kathy Archer said the FCERA was one of six associations to be awarded the Community Service Award for outstanding achievement in community volunteer and service work.
"Our retirees logged over 54,000 hours of volunteer efforts last year," Archer said.
Archer said this year will also be a busy year for the association.
"We have a lot planned for this year," Archer said. "The first project is the statewide campaign to feed the hungry in Alabama."
The project titled "Yes, We CAN feed Alabama!" The campaign will have the association busy collecting nonperishable or canned food items at each local meeting.
Archer said there will be collection boxes placed at local stores in November so that the community can help as well.
"We will also be working to provide a $500 scholarship to a graduating senior at each of the six high schools in the county and city," Archer said. "In the past, only one scholarship has been given in the county but we feel that all retired education employees will be willing to donate the $12 dues to make six scholarships possible this year."
The association also plans to send cards and thanks to local service men and women throughout the year.
"Many of us have family members currently serving in the military," Archer said. "This is a good way to let them know we are thankful for the service they provide."
Archer said the first meeting of the FCERA will be held on Oct. 21 at 11:30 a.m. at the new ministry center at the Russellville First United Methodist Church.