In October, the Orlando D. Reed Sr. Foundation made the disappointing decision to cancel the majority of activities for its first ever Fall Festival.
The group pulled the plug on the outdoor portion of the festival -- which was to have been held in Mattocks Park and included a bounce house, hayrides, games, free candy and other "spooky treats." -- because of the threat of inclement weather.
At the time, ODRSF founder Orlando D. Reed Jr. said he regretted having to make the call but he said planning was underway for the group's Christmas activities and that details were forthcoming.
The details have since been announced for the second annual "Finding Our Way Together" community Christmas event and fundraiser.
To kick things off, the ODRSF will present Kings of the Court, a basketball game featuring area community teams the Hoyas and the Rebels, at 5 p.m. Saturday in the Jame Johnson Gym.
Entry is free with canned goods, children's toys or winter clothing item. Admission is $3 without a donated item.
All donates and proceeds will go toward "Finding Our Way Together", which will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Christmas Day at 1901 Detroit, commonly known as the James Johnson Gym.
The event will include food, fellowship, live music, a raffle and a giveaway of toys, food and clothing.
Reed Jr. said anyone who is interested in contributing to the giveaway to help families in El Dorado and surrounding areas during the holiday season may donate toys, books, canned goods, toiletries and new or gently worn clothes and shoes of all sizes (children and adults).
The items may be dropped off from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday - Friday at Victory Childcare Center, 308 Cordell Ave.; 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday - Sunday at 1204 E. Center St.; and 3 until 7 p.m. Monday - Sunday at 302 S. Parkway Dr.
A food delivery service will be available to area senior citizens from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Residents may sign up for a hot meal for themselves or a senior they know. The deadline to register is Dec. 21.
Volunteers are also needed to help coordinate the event, Reed Jr. said.
For additional information, call Reed Jr. at 214-779-1957 or Lorenzo Lofton 832-817-4880.
Also, visit the ODRSF Facebook page to sign up for the meal delivery service or to volunteer.
QR codes that appear on fliers promoting "Finding Our Way Together" may also be scanned for more details about the event.