AUGUST 26, 2023
The DCFS picnic was a big success again this Year!!!!
This year was the 38th annual DCFS picnic. 34 years ago, Marion 800 member, Bobby Hudgens saw an article in the paper about the DCFS Picnic and asked “HOW CAN WE HELP?” The next several years Marion Elks volunteers grilled hotdogs on site and provided lunch for the youth in care.
When Bobby passed away in 2008, Ted Clendenin took the responsibility to make sure the tradition continued. Knowing that as ELKS we could do more for youth in care Ted got the ELKS South District, South Central District and IEA involved.
Annually DCFS presents Certificates of Appreciation to to Marion #800, IEA South District, IEA South Central District and IEA.
This year they presented the 1st annual Bobby Hudgens and Ted Clendenin Memorial Award. This award was presented to Bob Rongey ER Marion #800 and Ted Clendenin’s life partner, Becky Bourland, for continuing to serve adopted and foster children in our area.
This year we had 47 ELKS volunteers from all over the state. We served 1100 hot dogs sack lunches to the children and their families. $10 dollar bills were given to each child to spend at the fair. Each family was given a $20 gas card to help get home. Armbands were furnished by DCFS.
We served 109 families and 427 adopted and foster children and their siblings. The ELKS cost was $8023 this year. Donations totaled $5800. With our reserve from last year’s lower numbers we were able to increase the amount on gas cards and meet the need this year. Without the help of the Elks this annual event probably would not have survived all these years.
We also gave out 7140 pieces of Drug Awareness materials.
IT WAS A GREAT DAY FOR THE CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES!
I AM SURE BOBBY AND TED WERE SMILING DOWN ON US THAT DAY!
That being said DCFS would like to recognize the following: Marion #800, IEA South District, IEA South Central District, and IEA State Association. (certificates presented)
Thank you to everyone involved!!!
Becky Bourland Marion #800