The Bellmore Lions and Kiwanis Clubs share a common philanthropic goal of helping others and the annual Nassau County Strawberry Festival helps them to fulfill that goal in a major way.
With a mission of service through charity events, these full-time volunteers are getting their message across in a strong way.
"Through the participation of the members of the Bellmore Kiwanis Club, we've helped to educate our children, support our community and establish ourselves as the premier service organization in Bellmore," the Kiwanis Web site states.
According to Lions Club Festival Chairperson Joe Anderson, close to 60 members and their families volunteer at the festival, manning booths, serving food, etc.
"Every penny raised goes to charity, hundreds of charities," he added.
A Lions Club past president and longtime festival chairperson, Anderson said that they also always help local families in need.
Kiwanis Public Relations Chair Jessica Monks said that it takes an additional support staff of PTA volunteers, Kennedy and Mepham Key Club members, MAP program members and general volunteers from community.
"We begin planning basically right after each year's festival," she added.
Last year the groups raised the most money in festival history.
For a complete list of initiatives and organizations that they help, click here.
In its 22nd year, the Strawberry Festival will be held from tomorrow through Sunday on the grounds of the Jerusalem Avenue BOCES school. Festival-goers will be treated to various strawberry-themed foods, carnival-style rides and games, a Green Expo and an Craft Fair/Vendor Expo this year. Admission is $2.
"People should attend because it is a great family event with all proceeds going to support the local community and local families," Monks said.
For more information, visit www.TheStrawberryFest.com or www.BellmoreKiwanis.com.
