Getting in the spirit of fall and helping others, a community organization based in Baxter is hosting the second annual HOPE’s Happy Harvest.

“Everyone loves to decorate for fall, Halloween and thanksgiving,” said Leecoe Banker, organizer of the Restoring HOPE outreach. 

At the Twin Oak Community Center in Baxter, families are invited to create a scarecrow to add to their fall décor and enjoy activities for the whole family Friday, Oct. 5 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 6 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Admission is free and for $15 guests can stuff their own scarecrow. Proceeds benefit Restoring HOPE, a nonprofit, Christian-based public organization that allows individuals in need to shop for clothing and needed items free of charge.

“This event will create a centerpiece for your lawn, porch or where ever you would like to place it,” Banker said. “You and your family will enjoy picking out the clothing for your scarecrow, painting a face on a burlap bag for the head and then you all will be able to stuff and create to make your scarecrow come alive.”

A fire for roasting marshmallows, yard games, bobbing for apples and bounce houses for kids will also be available during the event. Concessions will include pinto beans and corn bread, chilli, hot dogs and nachos.

Restoring HOPE, Handing Out People’s Extras, is located on Baxter Road, three miles south of the I-40 interchange. Banker opened the mission in October 2012, collecting donated items and allowing those in need to take whatever they need. Everything done by the organization is done by volunteers. Open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon, the mission has served thousands since its opening.

For more information about the event or the mission of Restoring HOPE, contact Banker at 931-239-3040.

Twin Oak Community Center is located at 5939 Thomas Twin Oak Road, Baxter.