Sep 18

Sep 18 Community Rallies in Pink Hill for ALS Awareness Event

The Charlotte Baker Memorial Fund will be held on Friday, September 29th-30th at the Pink Hill Fire Department Community Center. This event will have a BBQ cookoff, a co-ed softball tournament, a silent auction and a Walk/Run.

*Community Rallies at Pink Hill for ALS Awareness Event. Photo from Facebook*

Charlotte Baker, known for her contributions in Pink Hill as the owner of Two Dogs Pizza, actively supported youth initiatives in Duplin and Lenoir counties. She particularly emphasized on local schools and sports teams. Walk/Run for PALS (people with ALS) registration for walkers/runners starts at 6:00 pm. The Walk/Run will start at 6:30 pm.

On the 30th, BBQ plates can be purchased from Pink Hill Fire Department, Deep Run Fire Department or the Albertson Fire Department. The co-ed tournaments will be held on the Pink Hill Recreation field and the two Albertson Recreation fields.

Beyond her business endeavors, Charlotte was diagnosed with ALS. In response to her diagnosis, The Charlotte Baker Memorial Fund was founded in 2022. Initiated by a conversation between her husband and a community member, this non-profit aims to address challenges faced by those diagnosed with ALS.

“Charlotte was as tough as they come, always had a smile on her face and took everything in stride,” said Stephanie Sumner. “Knowing her future was not going to go as herself and her family expected, she remained meticulous and planned as always.”

The foundation has provided support to ALS patients, such as assisting a young man from Nash County with home improvements. Fundraising events, including a BBQ Cookoff and a co-ed softball tournament, generate financial support for the fund. The idea for the BBQ event was introduced by Charlotte's son, Jason.

To access the fund's assistance, ALS patients specify their needs, and a volunteer board reviews them, offering support ranging from caregiving expenses to home accessibility modifications.

The Charlotte Baker Memorial Fund encourages community participation. They are open to volunteers, sponsors, and participants. Future fundraising plans may encompass events coinciding with ALS Awareness Month in May.

“We invite the community to join us in coming together for fellowship and solidarity in our efforts to raise funds for individuals affected by this devastating disease,” said Sumner.

The upcoming BBQ cookoff and co-ed softball tournament serve as reminders of Charlotte Baker's resilience in the face of ALS. Those interested in contributing to the mission of The Charlotte Baker Memorial Fund and combating ALS's challenges are invited to engage and support. The community remains committed to aiding those affected by this disease.

For more information about the Charlotte Baker Memorial Fund, please reach out to Joe Baker or Stephanie Sumner (cannon7480@gmail.com).

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