This Sept., 10 nonprofits of Midland County came together at the Greater Midland Community Center in celebration of their hard work over the past year.  At the event, the nonprofits created ‘districts’ of ‘tributes’ that competed in an array of backyard games, competing for the title of Agency Games champion. The entire idea was based off of the Hunger Games, but with a safer intent.

“Originally, the idea was to make it a fundraising event in benefit of United Way where all the partner agencies could participate in a fun evening together,” said Anita Forgie, Intake Coordinator of Home to Stay- Housing Assistance Center, in an email interview.

Marking its third year of existence, the event has turned into more of a fun, no-strings-attached evening.

“Our host tends to over exaggerate everything from his voice to his outfit and hair just like the TV host from the movies,” Forgie said.

This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters took home the marble, Hunger Games esque trophy.  Teams coming up short included; United Way, Shelterhouse, Home To Stay, The Arc, Hidden Harvest, Disability Network, West Midland Family Center, Community Center, and Family and Children’s Services.

“This is just kind of a fun way to get all the agencies together so we can network, get to know each other, and have some friendly competition,” Greater Midland Community Center director Kevin Heye said.

Photos courtesy of Aaron Cianek, Director of Communications, UWMC