Boone County Family Resources annual picnic was back this year at the MU Health Care Pavilion, and it was the biggest one yet with nearly

600 people joining in on the fun! Thanks to the generosity of the Elks Lodge 594, everyone enjoyed hotdogs, hamburgers, fresh fruit, veggies, chips and plenty of cookies. This year, vegan hamburgers, as well as gluten-free and sugar-free cookies, were available to accommodate past dietary requests.

 

 

The picnic is a chance for people to connect and celebrate together. A table is reserved for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, with an ASL interpreter on hand to ensure conversations could flow freely. Many BCFR staff members volunteered to work, and were able to see individuals they directly serve in a relaxed, joyful setting.

Supported Living Site Manager Shelton shared, “Individuals look forward to this event all year. They start asking about it at the beginning of summer, even though it’s always in the fall. It’s wonderful to have something consistent that everyone is excited for.”

A storm began rolling in towards the end of the evening, but it held off just long enough for everyone to eat, laugh and enjoy the day together under the pavilion.

 

“I love helping at the picnic because it’s such a great chance to see everyone,” said Direct Support Specialist Cohen Holte. “It’s great watching the excitement on individuals’ faces when they spot a friend they haven’t seen in awhile.”

Supported Living resident Lori looks forward to the picnic every year. She said with a big smile that her “favorite part of the picnic is great food and great friends.“