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Youth launch rockets, cookies fly off tables, and veterans benefit from unforgettable gathering in El Campo
A packed house and generous hearts helped SPJST District Six raise $1,760 for wounded veterans in only three hours.
The rally was held Saturday, July 12 at the Taiton Community Center. More than 75 members attended, exceeding the 47 RSVP count.
District Six Chair Yvonne Marcaurele enjoyed the company during the rally.
“I loved witnessing old friendships being rekindled, mere acquaintances creating those first bonds of friendship, and hearing members speaking Czech to each other, reminiscing of eras long past,” Marcaurele said.
Proceeds from the event benefit Warrior’s Weekend, a nonprofit supporting combat- wounded veterans through outdoor healing events.
“Their biggest service project is bringing in 300 combat- wounded veterans for an all-expenses paid weekend bay fishing experience in Port O’Connor,” Marcaurele said. “The Warrior’s Weekend volunteers transport, feed, house, and facilitate fishing excursions for the soldiers.”
She said, sharing her pride in her district’s ability to raise funds to support the organization during the rally.
“I am proud to report that our local district members raised $1,760 in less than three hours at the rally to help support the Warrior’s Weekend mission,” Marcaurele said. “Best news is [everyone] can continue to contribute just by visiting their website at warriorsweekend.org.”
More than 20 youth members volunteered, helping with setup, service, and cleanup.
“The youth had a blast with smiles and laughter, running and playing, forging bonds of friendship that I know they will carry into adulthood,” Marcaurele said.
The youth rocket launch competition was a crowd favorite. Abigail Garrett won the contest and received a retro SPJST popup lantern.
Even adults joined in the rocket fun, sharing in the excitement.
One of the event’s most popular features – the Silent Cookie Auction – brought in generous bids. More than 25 homemade cookie entries were auctioned, and each sold for at least $10.
SPJST Vice President of Communications Melanie Zavodny praised the energy and teamwork.
“This is what community looks like,” Zavodny said. “Having everyone come together for a good cause and having a good time.”
Marcaurele thanked SPJST Home Office staff for their dedication to member feedback.
“The Home Office personnel and our District Director arrived in a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm, which carried throughout the day,” Marcaurele said. “Thank you to Melanie, Frank, and their indefatigable team for listening to the membership feedback and crafting an event that promises to promote the true spirit of our SPJST organization.”
SPJST is a fraternal benefit society offering life insurance and community programs throughout Texas.
To learn more about SPJST or Warrior’s Weekend, visit spjst. org or warriorsweekend.org.
Founded in 1897, SPJST is a fraternal benefit society committed to enriching the lives of its members and strengthening communities through fellowship, service, and financial security. With a strong focus on education, volunteerism, and meaningful member engagement, SPJST offers life insurance and annuity products along with youth and adult programs across Texas. Learn more at www.spjst.org.
