More than 350 guests enjoyed food, fun and recognition during Inter Parish Ministry’s successful Celebration 2016: Faces of Hunger and Hope held May 1 at the Oasis Conference Center in Loveland.

Master of Ceremonies Thom Brennaman assisted IPM’s Executive Director Lindsey Ein in honoring volunteers who have contributed outstanding support and service to the Choice Food and Clothing Pantry. Added to this, Cincinnati musician Dan Varner serenaded the crowd with a special acoustical performance.

Those honored with IPM’s Circle of Hope Award included Beth Bowers Klaine, Tom Clore, Kathy Kennedy and Debbie Motz.

Each year, Inter Parish Ministry holds an awards event to honor outstanding volunteers and raise funds to support their programs that serve those in need who live in eastern Hamilton County and Clermont County. This year’s event featured appetizers from local restaurants, wine tasting, a silent auction and a live auction. The event raised more than $79,000 for IPM, surpassing the $70,000 goal set by the organization.

“We are pleased with the support of our donors and everyone in the community who attended the Celebration Event.” said IPM Executive Director Lindsey Ein. “ These funds are critically needed as will they will be be used to support Inter Parish Ministry’s Choice Food and Clothing Pantries that are located in Newtown and Batavia, Ohio and the organization’s other support services.” she said.

During the past year IPM served more than 4,300 families with food, clothing and support services through the Choice Food Pantries, Back to School Assistance and Holiday Assistance programs .

Information about Inter Parish Ministry can be found on the website at www.interparish.org.