Church’s community party to help world

Bridgewood Church, 6765 Rattalee Lake Road in Independence Township, invites the community to three days of fun for a good cause.
The church’s One Day to Change mission includes lots for the community, starting with One Day Block Party, 7 p.m., Friday, June 1. The event includes inflatables, a giant dodge ball game, a rock-climbing wall, food, a live band, and an outdoor movie at dusk. Bring lawn chairs and blankets, $10/carload.
“Families are always looking for something to do,” said Teen Pastor Sue Marquis. “Where can you find something for the whole family and know you’re making a difference around the world? You’ll feel good about how you spend your money.”
“It’s nonstop fun for the whole family,” said College and 20-Something Pastor Jon Rokowski. “We’ll have tons of raffle prizes. Chances are, you’ll win something.”
Saturday, June 2, is the Ride for Hunger Motorcycle Charity Fun Run, a 70 mile ride with six stops, 8 a.m., $20/rider, $5 passenger. This year, it includes a Classic Car Show, $20 per car, $5 extra person, with lunch and prizes.
“We hope to have a ton of classic and custom cars along with the motorcycles,” Rokowski said.
On Sunday, June 3, is Run for Change, 5K certified, chip-timed run, $25; 1 mile run, and 1-mile family walk.
“The 1-mile family walk is cool,” Marquis said. “Push your stroller and bring the little kids. We’ll have fun characters along the way to greet them and tell what they’re doing to help the world. It’s a teaching moment and fun at the same time. It’s a win-win.”
All proceeds benefit Connection with Nigeria, which offers restoration ministry, orphanage, and medical services.
Nigeria is a high-poverty war zone, Marquis said.
“They’re just killing people left and right. There are so many orphans,” she said.
Senior Pastor Curt Demoff went there last February, she said.
“He has seen it first hand, it was a dangerous situation, harrowing,” Marquis said. “He met a lot of leaders. Week after week, we’d hear that people he met were killed. It’s really personal. It’s horrible.”
“People put lives on the line just to worship God,” Marquis said. “There are many needs locally, but these three days are focused around the world.”
Check events@onedaytochange.com or call 248-625-1344.