Illinois—After viewing the news of the tsunami tragedy, the Williams family, of the First Springfield Church, decided to act. Instead of planning a traditional birthday party for their three-year-old son, Benjamin, they decided to coordinate a fund-raising party.

"We hosted Benjamin’s party at a local skating rink, and invited fellow church members, family, and friends to come join us," reported Benjamin's parents, Dean and Teresa. Guests were invited to support the Adventist Development and Relief Agency’s (ADRA) endeavor to help the tsunami victims. In addition, guests were also invited to support a local project, the First Springfield Church Adventurer Club.

Rather than shopping for gifts, everyone brought monetary donations to Benjamin's party. The event created such an interest, and was so well received, that over 80 people came. It was a special fun-filled day for Benjamin. Even Benjamin's older brother, Logan, had fun at the party which included skating, pizza, and, of course, a birthday cake.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the event and the Williams family was able to raise $900 for ADRA, and $100 for the Adventurer Club—all in Benjamin's honor.

Congratulations to the Williams family for giving their community an opportunity to help others while providing a special birthday celebration for their son.

Gary Burns, Lake Union Herald editor