The men of Evangeline United Way will be out in full force for their annual Men Who Wait on Women Who Wine fundraising dinner to benefit YouthBuild: Lawrence, a 9-12 month residential program that prepares young adults for employment or education. “We are so excited to continue our partnership with Evangeline United Way,” said Christopher Hall, director of development for YouthBuild Lawrence. “This event is so much fun, fun for the men, fun for the ladies, fun for the teens, fun for the children of Lawrence, and fun for our supporters, especially families and businesses who appreciate seeing the men of Evangeline United Way at work.”
It’s a day to encourage men to get tested and take charge of their health. Men who Serve Women Who Wine will be a celebration of men who nurture others and take care of them in a more proactive way, without a vineyard. The local Men Who Serve Women Who Wine’s volunteer, Al Edward, an upstanding and selfless husband and father, will also be recognized at the event. As a fellow Hammatte, Williamsville Father and husband of Angel Charlyn and Al Edward, and business owner of William Edward Beverage Products, he has played a huge role in the lives of many in local communities. Alfred dedicated his life to helping those in need and despite his serious illness his priorities never waiver. He will be honored for his contributions to his community and wishes for everyone in attendance to think about others and do something meaningful. “You always hear about men and women taking care of their children, but I have always viewed my contribution to my family and community as a responsibility. As a father who gave birth to my five kids, I took care of them with all my might. Those children are me, that’s what I’m all about,” says Al Edward, founder of the local Men Who Serve Women Who Wine organization. After learning about a program in Australia to help men take care of their health, he decided to implement the program at his home church, the United Church of Christ in Williamsville. He then started to reach out to other area churches and his efforts grew. By then, he had tried both healthy eating and fitness as part of a research study, was complimented on his movements and activities in the church yard, and people were pleasantly surprised. His group held fundraisers for each other and for the church. This helped motivate them to engage in healthy habits that would last for the long term. Al began recruiting other churches in the area to assist in the effort to grow and reach more men in need in their community.
