When the Board of Directors and Executive Director of Love INC of Greater East Otter Tail County began planning their Fall Fundraiser, they had two main goals: raise a substantial amount of money to support the mission and help attendees understand the hardships experienced by people who reach out to Love INC for help.  As the leadership evaluated the event last week, they strongly agreed that the event succeeded in reaching both of these goals.

People who attended the Love INC Fall Fundraiser on October 12 got a sobering look at the hardships many people in our communities face.  Attendees walked through a door frame to which an eviction notice was attached. They then looked at facts and scenarios depicting the economic challenges people face: no money for groceries and household necessities, a work-related accident for which health insurance denied coverage, an overwhelming list of needed school supplies and equipment with no money to purchase them for children going to school, and more.  Many attendees commented on the impact that seeing these displays had on them. They felt shock, concern, and a need to do something to help people who experience these things. In this way, Love INC board members felt they were successful in meeting their goal of helping attendees understand the hardships experienced by those who contact Love INC for help.

Organizers also felt their goal of raising a substantial amount for the ministry of Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC) was met.  In total, the event raised $11,000.  This total was raised through donations made that evening for meals, items from the silent auction and the Made with Love Market, games, and general donations.  The Board of Directors and Executive Director are grateful to all who attended the event and to the individuals, churches and businesses who provided items for the meal, the silent auction and the Made with Love Market.  They were thrilled to have staff and volunteers from the summer childcare program at First Lutheran Church of Battle Lake, one of Love INC’s Partner Churches, at the event to direct the games, which participants greatly enjoyed. From donations of handcrafted items and silent auction items, to baked goods, potato salad and beans, the 13 Love INC Partner Churches played a huge part in the success of this Fall Fundraiser.  

Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC) of Greater East Otter Tail County opened its doors in February 2024, and has recently opened its new office space at 94 Lake Avenue S, Ottertail.  The mission of the nonprofit Love In the Name of Christ is to mobilize local churches to transform lives and communities in the Name of Christ.  

Anyone interested in volunteering their time, donating to the mission, or seeking information on becoming a partner church can contact Emily Ripley, Executive Director at (218) 423-LOVE (5683) or director.loveinceot.org