The United Gospel Rescue Mission is kicking off its Golden Anniversary this week with two community celebrations.
The 50th Anniversary Banquet will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Black River Coliseum. From 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday will be the UGRM Family Fun Day sponsored by Ozark Federal Credit Union.
The UGRM@50 committee is co-chaired by Robbie Myers and Jeff Shawan. Myers said the banquet will focus on fellowship, fun and worship while celebrating 50 years of service to the community. The gathering will include pastors, first responders, past and current staff, board members, volunteers and UGRM supporters.
Myers said a highlight of the evening will be testimonies from two men whose lives were changed through the work of the Mission.
Sen. Doug Libla will be the night's emcee. Poplar Bluff Mayor Susan McVey and Butler County Presiding Commissioner Vince Lampe are the honorary co-chairs and will recognize sponsors that are making the anniversary events possible, Myers added.
Former UGRM Board Member John Stanard will discuss the heritage and history of the organization. Mission Director Rev. Greg Kirk will present a State of the Mission address and the vision for its future.
Former UGRM Board Member Bishop Ron Webb will offer remarks regarding purpose and Cheri Dawe will direct a community choir comprised of volunteers. The choir will be accompanied by former UGRM Board Member Kirk Mondy.
Rev. Kirk said he and a few of the program's men will provide dinner.
"We look forward to a fun evening of fellowship with friends of the Mission as we celebrate what the community has created to serve the least, the last and the lost for the past half century in the name of Jesus," he said.
Tickets to the banquet are available at the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce for $15 each. Myers said area pastors and their spouses receive free admission to the event.
"In recognition of the important role played by area churches and their pastors during the Mission's 50 years of service, sponsors have underwritten the cost to provide complimentary tickets to area pastors and their spouses," Myers said.
Pastors may pick up their complimentary tickets between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday inside the Chamber's conference room.
Additionally, members of the UGRM 50th Anniversary Committee will be stationed at the Chamber of Commerce during the aforementioned times on Monday to collect additional event sponsorships, volunteers and Rescue Mission memorabilia from the public.
"There is still time to get involved," Myers said. "You can drop off any Rescue Mission photos, newspaper clippings or other memorabilia that you are willing to share to be displayed at the banquet."
A luncheon will be held at noon Monday at the Chamber of Commerce for anyone wishing to volunteer for Thursday's banquet and/or Saturday's Family Fun Day. For questions or additional information, call 573-872-7585.
Family Fun Day festivities will be held at the United Gospel Rescue Mission on Broadway with various activities targeting all age ranges.
Planned by OFCU Business Development Specialist Davine Conover, the event will feature a Kid Zone sponsored by area churches. Hamburgers, hot dogs, refreshments, and musical entertainment by Jerry Wawak, Zach McAnulty and Two Girls Bluegrass and Friends will be provided. Magician Randy Kalin is also slated to perform.
Conover said she hopes to see a great turnout to celebrate the United Gospel Rescue Mission's first 50 years.