Make a Difference at the Winter Family Picnics

By Kim Krieger, PR/Media Relations

As Sauder Village reflects on 35 years of bringing living-history to millions of guests, we also look to the future. During difficult economic times, Sauder Village has learned to do more with less while never compromising the overall experience. However, even with many cost saving decisions, we need your help. What began as Erie Sauder’s passion backed by his financial resources is a nonprofit that needs the help of its far-reaching community to keep its mission alive. Maintaining this resource is a labor-intensive undertaking. Although proceeds from admissions,  hospitality, and retail areas support our educational mission, they do not cover the expense of maintaining the living-history village. To keep Sauder Village accessible and affordable for all, we rely on friends, businesses and the community for support. Your gifts truly make the difference!

A great way to show your support is by joining us on Tuesday, February 28th for our annual Winter Family Picnic Fundraiser. A tradition in the community since 2003 Winter Family Picnics allow families to enjoy a delicious meal in Founder’s Hall while supporting Historic Sauder Village and the projects of many other non-profit organizations. This year’s community fundraisers will provide support for the Sauder Village annual fund, the 9/11 Memorial Fund and the Archbold Area Foundation.

From 4:30-7:00 p.m. a hearty meal of Barn chicken, BBQ Pork Sandwiches, potato and vegetable will be available in Founder’s Hall. Cole slaw, dessert salad, rolls and drink are also included and carryout-out meals will be available. This hearty meal is available with a free will donation.

The partner organization for the first Winter Picnic on Tuesday, February 28 is the 9/11 Memorial Fund. The 9/11 Memorial Fund is sponsored by the Fire and EMS Departments, Law Enforcement, and Veterans within Fulton County. The group is seeking donations to support the opening of the 9/11 Memorial at the Fulton County Fairgrounds. The Wauseon Fire Department was selected to receive a steel column from the World Trade Center for use in making a permanent memorial in Fulton County. The 12 foot steel column that weighs 3,615 pounds arrived in Fulton County on June 17. A design for this memorial has been established and the volunteers hope to have the memorial finished in time for the 2012 Fulton County Fair. Your participation in the February 28th Winter Family Picnic at Sauder Village is one way you can help make the 9/11 Memorial possible.

The Archbold Area Foundation is the partner organization for the Winter Family Picnic on March 13. The Archbold Area Foundation is completing 27 years of service to the Archbold community. Over the past five years, the foundation has given $110,438.96 to various local citizens and organizations.

The proceeds shared from both Winter Family Picnics will be directed to the Sauder Village Annual Fund. Gifts to the Annual Fund support the mission of the Historic Village, where history is brought to life with authentic demonstrations, costumed interpreters, talented artisans, and engaging programs that make history relevant for all ages in a wholesome, fun, and family-friendly environment. Historic Sauder Village  allows generations of people the opportunity to spend quality time together as they learn about the history and values that shaped Northwest Ohio. What began as one man's passion relies on support from our local communities to ensure that this historical and cultural treasure can continue to positively impact the lives of many for years to come.

We hope you’ll make plans to join us!