Staff report

LUMBERTON — The Boys and Girls Club will open its doors to the public on Saturday for a free fall festival organizers say has been designed to “unite the community.”

The event will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at 1310 N. Seneca St. in Lumberton. Lunch will be provided and a limited number of free T-shirts will be available.

“Our goal at this event is to thank the community for the support they have provided to us,” said Ron Ross, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club of Robeson County. “It is our hope to see both old and new faces this Saturday participating in a fun, community-centered event.”

A free drawing featuring prizes of signed sports memorabilia will also take place. The festival will feature horseback riding, games, caricature paintings and a cake walk.

Former basketball players at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke will give a clinic Purnell Swett High School cheerleaders will lead the cheers. The club’s basketball court, recently renovated by volunteers from The University of Pembroke’s basketball team, will be unveiled.

Sponsors of the event include Lowe’s of Lumberton, Divine Desserts, Krispy Kreme of Fayetteville, Cici’s Pizza, Pepsi-Cola, Hanes and FirstHealth of the Carolinas.

For information or volunteer opportunities, call 910-232-6236 or e-mail boysandgirlsclubnc@yahoo.com.