Dec. 2 -- GREENSBURG -- The annual Speranza House Smart Bingo is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12, at the Greensburg Knights of Columbus, 1308 W. Main Street. Doors open at 5 p.m. and games start at 6 p.m. Tickets are available for $40 cash-only at the door.
This is the third year for the popular Speranza fundraiser, and it's a twist on the traditional Bingo game. All the prizes are electronic gadgets that most everyone has on their Christmas lists. An Apple watch, an Apple 16 phone, a Samsung watch, a 60" smart television and several other techie gadgets are on the block for the first players to holler BINGO!
The first year for the fundraiser, Speranza made $2,000. The second year, the idea caught on and nearly 150 people showed up to play; $5,156 was the take that year. Organizers are hoping the event continues to grow as there is a real need for the funds the event generates.
When a new resident commits to recovery at Speranza House, all transportation, food, board and recovery program materials and household goods are provided, and with as many as 22 women involved in the program those supplies are expensive.
This year's event is scheduled to run two hours with a break between games. Snacks and beverages will be available. No alcohol will be served.
Speranza House is a faith-based 501c(3) not-for profit recovery facility. The board of directors includes President Dorene Greiwe, Vice-President Danette Kennedy, Secretary Janet Hodson and Treasurer Jim Stewart along with board members Jennifer Sturges, Courtney Schroeder, Jamie Bridges, Jeff Porter, Stuart Reed, Tammy Sidell, Tony Blodgett and Sarah Hamer.
The Speranza House is open to women 18 and older and offers a structured 9 to 12-month program of training in life skills, financial literacy, parenting, healthy relations and 12-step protocols, to name a few.
To learn more about Speranza House, call 812-222-0079 or visit www.speranzahouse.org.
Contact Bill Rethlake at 812-651-0876 or email bill.rethlake@greensburgdailynews.com.