A Labor Day fundraiser in Belleview is hoping to turn a day of games, food and family fun into support for a much bigger idea.
Gerri’s Kids Telethon will be held Monday, Sept. 7, at the Ocala Moose Lodge, 10035 U.S. Highway 441 in Belleview. The event is being organized by Florida Kids Helping Kids and will raise money toward a proposed 100-acre fairgrounds and community park.
The day starts with kids carnival games from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with prizes and family-friendly activities.
From 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., organizers will host an early dinner and Jerry Lewis trivia, a throwback to the longtime entertainer whose Labor Day telethons were once a holiday weekend tradition for millions of families.
The day wraps up with casino night from 6 to 10 p.m., featuring casino-style games, live entertainment and more fundraising.
Organizers are also sharing a concept drawing of what they hope the future fairgrounds could eventually look like. The plans show an exhibit hall, carnival midway, food court, agricultural and 4-H centers, a working farm, petting zoo, walking trails, gardens, fitness center, observatory and plenty of parking.
It is still very much a vision on paper, and the telethon is part of the effort to build support and raise money for it.
For families looking for something different to do on Labor Day, organizers are hoping a few carnival games, some Jerry Lewis nostalgia and an evening at the casino tables can help give that idea a little push.
Donations can also be made by texting FKHK to 53555 or by calling 855-526-5437.
