Cristina Paden, executive director of Rainbow's End Youth Services (REYS), describes the organization's annual banquet as an inspiring night. "It's a time of fellowship and connection," she stated. "It's a great way to get to understand the heart behind our mission here at REYS and a great way to get connected with other community members." REYS will hold its banquet on Friday, March 17, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Junction Center, 1875 Junction Road, Manheim.

The keynote speaker for the event will be Garrett Lowe, leadership development coach with BCM International. BCM, which stands for Bible Centered Ministries, has a mission to reach children and build up the church, Paden explained, and the organization completes mission work all over the world. Prior to joining BCM, Lowe served as a leadership coach and consultant. REYS worked with Lowe in the past in a coaching capacity, Paden said, adding, "He worked with us to help us develop our core values as an organization. To have someone who knows us really well serve as our keynote speaker is really exciting."

The banquet will also include a catered meal provided by Hess's Barbecue Catering, along with hamloaf donated by Gene Wenger's. "We'll have a time of ministry updates, including an interview video from one of our families so guests will be able to hear directly how a family has been impacted by REYS in the past year," Paden said.

Located in Mount Joy, REYS provides after-school programming with a Christian focus to students in grades one through 12. "It's been a great year for REYS," Paden remarked. "We've seen a lot of new students and a lot of new people getting involved in REYS. We've strengthened our relationships with Donegal School District this past year as well."

Tickets to the banquet are free. Funds are raised through sponsorships and donations at the event. Paden noted that REYS is still looking for banquet sponsors. Reservations are required for the banquet on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority will be given to people who register by Friday, March 3. For tickets and more information, visit https://reys.org/events.