Supporters of 22 Hands Up gathered at the Minden Community House on Saturday, September 26, for the nonprofit’s annual Food Fest fundraiser, sharing an afternoon of food, fellowship, and Christian worship music while supporting programs for local youth.
The event featured a sit-down meal of comfort and soul food, along with musical entertainment. Founder and Executive Director Darrell Hampton thanked those who helped make the fundraiser possible.
“I just want to thank everyone who gave and donated and prepared and came out to support this organization,” Hampton said. “We are better together.”
Hampton also recognized Walmart, Office Depot, and Brookshire’s for their support of the organization.
“All these people, they give. It takes a community, it takes all of us to do what we’re trying to do,” Hampton said. “We’re trying to raise up our young people and invest in their future.”
Five door prizes were awarded during the event. Tan Grigsby, Kyle Smith, Jenene Major Franklin, and Ella Dudley-Ary each won a 55-inch television, while Sonya Thornton received a wine gift basket.
Food Fest serves as a fundraiser for 22 Hands Up’s continuing youth programs. The nonprofit focuses on education, employment, empowerment, and providing young people with experiences intended to help prepare them for adulthood.
The organization’s next scheduled youth activity is a trip to Grambling State University for High School Day on Saturday, November 1, which will also include the Grambling State-Alabama A&M football game. The outing gives participating youth an opportunity to experience a college campus and learn more about higher education.
“Thank you for coming out and being a part of 22 Hands Up,” Hampton said. “This is a movement, and we’re going to keep it moving.”
Registration for the High School Day trip is available at 22handsup.net/events or by contacting Hampton at 318-268-2223.
