In the fall of 2021, the congregation at Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church (CLPC), 1068 Chestnut Level Road, Quarryville, was divided into several groups for a "40 Days in the Word" Bible study. Each group had to develop a plan where the members would do something good to benefit others. A Bible study group of mothers wanted to organize an event that would provide fun for kids, so they decided to plan a touch-a-truck event.

On Saturday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., trucks, tractors, and more will fill the parking lots in front of the church's Family Life Center building, which is located across the street from CLPC. People are invited to touch the vehicles, climb inside them, and see them up close. Event coordinator Anna Mary Barcus confirmed that there will be a golf cart, a milk truck, a fire engine truck, a skid loader, a dump truck, construction apparatuses, and an antique Army truck.

"I just think it'll be really fun to have the community come," said Barcus. "People can bring their families and have a good morning. It's great we can host these events and be a place for people to have a great time together."

Parking for attendees will be available in front of the church, and an admission donation is strongly suggested. According to Barcus, the mission of touch-a-truck is twofold: to host a community event and to raise funds for CLPC's "Restore His House" capital campaign for the newly renovated sanctuary, which was built in the 1700s by a group of Christians who came together for worship, music, fellowship, and growth in their knowledge and love of God. Notable changes to the church include the newly exposed balcony, two fieldstone additions on either side of the bell tower, the restored ceiling with gold leaf details, the restored antique German stained-glass windows, and the refurbished wooden pews, dating to circa 1914. Renovations took about a year and a half to complete.

Barcus noted that there will be activities inside the Family Life Center building, and there might be food and beverages available for purchase as well. In the event of inclement weather, a rain date has been set for Sunday, April 3, from noon to 2 p.m.

Those interested in bringing a vehicle to the touch-a-truck fundraiser should email Barcus at annamarybarcus@gmail.com at least one week prior to event.

For more information about CLPC, visit http://www.chestnutlevel.org.