Lanny Millette, donor director with The Potter's House, remembers that pastor Jaime Santiago of Restart Training Center Ministries (RTCM) contacted him a few years ago about holding a fundraiser together as a show of unity among recovery ministries in Lancaster County. "It's bigger than one ministry," said Millette, who noted that Slow Down Ministries, which helps provide vehicles for graduates of Christ-centered programs like Potter's House and RTCM, has joined in the effort as well.

The Lanco Recovery Benefit Auction, which will include live music, food vendors, and a candy drop, will be held at 320 N. Ronks Road, Bird-in-Hand, on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 4 and 5. Festivities will kick off at 5 p.m. on Aug 4 and at 9 a.m. on Aug. 5.

Currently, organizers are looking for sponsors to help cover the costs of bands, food, marketing, and more, and for businesses and individuals to donate new items to be auctioned. Among the new items Frank Gaston of Slow Down Ministries has gathered to go up for bids are motorcycle parts and accessories, parts for off-road trucks, and a bicycle. "We would accept gift cards, vacations, or a dinner for six in a home," said Millette.

To provide entertainment between live auction sets, Santiago has lined up family Gospel folk groups from Ohio that he said are well-known in the Lancaster area. On Friday, groups include Dan and Amanda Esh, the Brandenberger Family, and Matt & Nimmie. The Brandenberger Family will play again on Saturday, along with Conrad Fisher, Broadway, and Endless Hallelujah Band. A candy drop is planned for late Saturday morning or early afternoon.

"One of our purposes is to let people know this is a unified effort of several minnistries wanting to help each other," said Millette. "Right now, we are hoping individuals and businesses will stand with us as sponsors." He added, "(We are looking for) people who find joy in helping those who can't help themselves." The Potter's House provides a safe place for men and women to recover from addiction, experience Christ-centered discipleship, and embrace their God-given destiny. RTCM has a mission to change the lives of men with addictions by introducing them to Jesus and helping them process past trauma to deal with problems in a healthy way and become positive members of society. "We are there to give people a leg up with a desire that they become contributing members of the community," said Millette. "We all benefit from that."

Readers who are interested in sponsorships or making donations to the auction may call Gaston at 717-723-7253, Santiago at 717-304-3341, or Millette at 717-919-0316.