Elvis, children's games, fingerprinting, Harleys, massages, jaws of life, and Smokey the Bear are just a few things that the Williamson County Family Crisis and Homeless Shelter (WCFCHS) is bringing to the Illinois Centre Mall on Saturday.A family friendly event planned by Rick Hubert of Lake of Egypt, executive director of special events with WCFCHS is going to be the biggest event that the mall has held. Free food at Black Diamond Harley Davidson during a Battle of the Bands competition featuring 15 local bands is included as part of the fundraising event.
Since it costs $34 per day to feed and house a homeless individual and state budgetary cuts have eliminated much of the monies that used to support organizations like WCFCHS, the group has decided to try to obtain some of that money through fundraising.
The shelter, which is located in Herrin, was originally set up to house battered women. Today, they house families and individuals who are "down on their luck," according to Hubert.
The facility provides day care for residents' children, teaches classes on building resumes and cooking, allows people to stay for 30 days, and holds to a strict 10 p.m. curfew. While residing at the shelter, people must look for employment and it helps to get individuals in touch with the proper government agencies that may offer further assistance. All residents also have chores such as cleaning, etc.
Hubert, who used to run marathons to benefit children with leukemia, was sidelined in 2002 after inhaling mercury from a toxic clean-up site. He spent five years dependent on either a walker or a wheelchair before returning to his feet two years ago..
"I've finally been able to sit down and make a difference for people who otherwise wouldn't have a chance," said Hubert.
Planning the event has also been theaputic for him.
"When you focus on helping others through their stuff (problems), it makes you think less about your own stuff (problems)," added Hubert.
Saturday's event kicks off at 10 a.m. and continues at Illinois Centre Mall until 7 p.m. From 7 to 9 p.m. Matt Joyce, a well-known Elvis impersonator, will be performing at T-Birds near the Williamson County Airport. Joyce will also perform at the mall from 2 to 4 p.m.
Performances take place throughout the day including Andy Gibson from noon-2 p.m., "Elvis" from 2-4 p.m., Don Faulkner from 4-5 p.m., and Rocky Mountain Creek Band from 5-6:30 p.m.
Other events include "Butch" Boatright, chainsaw artist; free ice cream for kids from Humana; a silent auction, Williamson County Sheriff Department id tags for children, a demonstration of the jaws of life, free massages, free spinal exams, free chiropractic demonstrations; a presentation on how to build a first aid kit, ring toss, children's games, Battle of the Bands and free food and drink at Black Diamond. Smokey the Bear, a car show, a 50/50 drawing and a coloring contest.
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