By Judy Reed

Over 165 walkers turned out to show their support for the Alpha Family Center at their 14th annual LifeWalk at Morley Park June 18. About $9,000 was raised to help support their yearly budget of $60,000.

While the center fell short of their $14,000 goal, Executive Director Lorrie Shelton thinks people will step up to fill in the gap. “We have a great community that cares about what we do,” she said.

Shelton thinks the economy has a lot to do with the drop in support. “Sometimes people have to make tough choices between their families and giving to charities,” she explained. She added they are brainstorming ideas for possible fundraisers to help offset expenses.

Besides the operating shortfall, Alpha is also looking for about $5,000 to help fix a leaky roof, and a problem with their water freezing. “There are some possible grants out there, but we need to raise some matching funds,” she noted.

For those wishing to give, please contact the center at 696-2616, or mail or visit them at Alpha Family Center, PO Box 450, 6 N. First Street, Cedar Springs, Michigan 49319. Visit the Alpha Family Center online at http://www.alphafamilycentercs.org/.