NFM Orioles raise big funds to help send local children to summer camp
By ANDREA GALABINSKI
nfmneighbor@breezenewspapers.com
After a highly successful Send Kids To Camp Poker Run and Fund-raiser held March 26, members of the Women’s Auxiliary of the North Fort Myers Fraternal Order of the Orioles Nest 301 presented a check to county officials this week for the camp fund.
The event was a poker run that started at the Orioles’ location on North Cleveland Avenue, then on to Cape Coral and even Punta Gorda. After, many members of the Orioles donated their time to make food and fun for the packed house that helped support the cause.
“We made $1,700 at the event, and the Ladies Auxiliary is also donating another $200,” said Auxiliary president Sandi Walts.
“That is after expenses,” said Treasurer Pam Cupps.
“And that isn’t all,” said Sergeant at Arms Sandy Mack. “We still have more money coming in. We have a donated Jet Ski and a four-passenger paddle boat we are putting on Craig’s List for the fund.”
It was a fabulous turnout at the main event, said all officers. Besides Walts, Cupps and Mack, they include Vice President Ida Chacko and Secretary Megan Potts.
“Just listening to them (Orioles Auxiliary) is wonderful,” said Lee County Parks & Recreation Supervisor Mabel Vega at the recent presentation. “They embrace what they are doing, giving back to kids in the community. It keeps programs like this going with their efforts.”
Walts noted many that were key to the fund-raising effort, including Kenny Cox, Larry Carter, Alden West and Susie Harkness. “Also, Randy Dull was our main chef and cooked most of the food. He was a major key to the event’s success,” she said.
Camps begin June 20. They are run through the North Fort Myers Community Park and Recreation Center and local children are the beneficiaries.
There are arts and crafts, field trips, guest speakers and more.
“We’ve had several parents call from the last article in The Neighbor about the event to ask about the camp funds,” said Senior Recreation Specialist Christine Susterich. “We know these camps will have a big impact on these children. We have teen and traditional camp, and at least once a summer, they get together for a big, fun exercise day.”
“They’ll have a definitive summer experience they would not otherwise have,” said Senior Recreation Specialist Libby Olive.
The Orioles are known for their charitable work, including sponsoring local families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas time and supporting Cape Coral soldier Corey Kent, as well as their yearly support of the summer camps.
The North Fort Myers Fraternal Order of the Orioles Nest 301 is located at 13290 North Cleveland Ave. They are still accepting donations.
For more information on summer camps, call The North Fort Myers Community Park Recreation Center at 652-4512.