HOLLIS – In support of the Hollis Police Department Benevolent Association, the Friends of the Hollis Police Committee will host a Family Fun day and Dinner/Comedy Show, on Saturday, Sept. 30.

This event was born last year in an effort to show appreciation for all that our police officers, including the Hollis Police Department, do on a daily basis. In addition to raising funds, there is also an effort to raise awareness of the psychological challenges police officers, as well as other first responders, experience. Statistics show on average nationwide, that three first responders commit suicide every 52 hours. While the focus is to not only increase the level of understanding to the general public, but also to offer wellness seminars, make help easier to access when needed and to connect first responders in need with a therapy dog, as appropriate.

The Police Benevolent Association will be using the money raised from the event to help officers in need, as well as to award scholarships to local high school students. The association does work in areas, such as providing assistance to members, promotion fellowship within the department and advancing the basic mission of the department.

The festivities on Sept. 30 will start off with a Family Fun Day to be held at Lawrence Barn and Nichols Field, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This event will be filled with activities, including field day games, chowder cook-off, face painting, exhibitions and food. Attendees will be able to “arrest” their friends and family with the “bond” set at $5 for five minutes of “captivity.” In addition, there will be a tug-of-war competition between members of the Hollis PD and local tree guys and loggers, as well as demonstrations by the Nashua K-9 officers and Neil Stone Karate.

The dinner and comedy show will take place in the evening, from 6-11 p.m. at Alpine Grove Banquet Facility in Hollis. While three comedians entertain, (Chad Zingales, Carolyn Plummer and Mike Koutrobis), there will also be musical performance by Miranda Martin, live auctions for prizes such as trips to Africa and Ireland, Patriots signed helmet, Aerosmith guitar, skydiving and helicopter rides and a 50/50 raffle. Tickets cost $40 per person.

If you are unable to attend the event, but would like to donate to theHollis Police Department Benevolent Association, there is a need for raffle and live auction items, including gift certificates and gift baskets; monetary donations are also appreciated. Businesses sponsorships are also available. Businesses or individuals donating more the $250 will be included on the banner of recognition to be displayed at both events. For a donation of $500, not only will the business/individual be noted on the banner, but will also receive two complimentary dinner tickets. In addition, the Friends of the Hollis Police Committee is also looking for businesses and individuals to allow their picture to be taken with our “Thank You for your Service” sign.

All proceeds to benefit the HPD Benevolent Association. For more information, check out our Facebook page at Hollis Police Appreciation Day and Fundraiser. If you have any questions, would like to participate in the chowder cook-off, become a vendor or wish to make a donation, email jorley02@aol.com or call Tina Carlson at 321-9268.