The Community Outreach Group (OFCO) is hosting a fundraiser this weekend to help local seniors.
To raise money for new exercise equipment at the O’Fallon Senior Center, OFCO has planned a mouse race event on Friday, March 30.
The mouse races will be held at the center, 106 North Main St. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the races begin at 7 p.m.
The is a resource that offers local residents a place to meet with friends, enjoy meals and participate in educational and recreational programs.
For months, O’Fallon Senior Center volunteers Donna Hadley and Lynn Martin have worked together to gain support and organize a fundraiser to benefit the residents who utilize the facility.
The volunteers said most of the current exercise equipment at the center is in need of repair or not suitable for the seniors, who range in age from 60-90.
“There are things up here that I don’t consider age appropriate for 70 and 80-year-old people,” Hadley said.
Hadley said they are looking at fitness equipment that will help seniors with arthritis and strengthening their necks and upper bodies.
A few months ago, the volunteers reached out to OFCO and began planning this weekend’s mouse race event.
OFCO is made up of 48 members of the O’Fallon Fire Protection District, who volunteer in the community during their time off-duty. The group helps out within their district boundaries, through fundraising, donations and providing manpower to citizens and organizations in need.
“These men and woman are committed to protecting their community both on and off duty by helping those in need,” David O’Leary, chairman of OFCO said. “Whether it’s building a wheelchair ramp for a resident, providing a pizza night at the local Salvation Army, or adopting a family for Christmas; these men and woman are busy helping all year long.”
O’Leary said the group hopes to raise enough money this Friday to help buy the senior center some appropriate equipment.
If you'd like to help out, there's still time to purchase tickets to this weekend's event. Hadley said 14 tables have already sold and there are six tables still open.
To buy a ticket, contact the O’Fallon Senior Center between 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 636-272-4180 or email ofallonfirefightersgmail.com.
Cost for the mouse races:
- $15 per person
- $100 for a table of eight
- $10 to name a mouse
- $100 to sponsor a race
Admission prices include snacks and soft drinks. Beer and alcohol are not provided, but attendees are welcome to bring their own.
There will be door prizes and raffles including a 50/50 drawing. Participants can also enter a silent auction for a chance to win River City Rascals tickets and gift certificates from , and much more.
