Annual Cascoe BBQ Fundraiser Supports Community Center Restoration

Residents and community supporters gathered at the Cascoe Community Center on Saturday before last for the Annual Cascoe BBQ Fundraiser, an event that continues to serve as an important tradition and source of support for the historic facility.

Members of New Salem Missionary Baptist Church contributed a variety of homemade desserts and baked goods, while volunteers assisted with barbecue sales throughout the day. Pitmasters Melvin Case, Kelly Lindsey, and Allen Dill prepared approximately 400 pounds of brisket for the fundraiser. The community’s barbecue cooker, originally dedicated on March 2, 1992, has long been central to the event’s success, with as much as 800 pounds of barbecue prepared during earlier fundraisers.

The Cascoe Community Center, originally constructed around 1922, is now more than 100 years old and in need of significant structural repairs. Organizers are currently working toward a fundraising goal of $20,000 to address foundational issues, replace deteriorating seals, raise portions of the building, and repair the roof.

Cindy Shelton, a longtime community supporter with deep ties to the area dating back to the 1970s and 1980s, has introduced additional fundraising initiatives to support restoration efforts. Planned events include a Gumbo Chili Supper this fall and a community Bingo Night.

The Community Center continues to serve as an important gathering place for the area, hosting banquets, weddings, family reunions, and other events. Rental fees are currently set at $45 for members and $60 for non-members. The annual barbecue fundraiser remains the organization’s primary fundraising event, and approximately $5,250 had already been raised prior to this year’s cookout.

Shelton also noted that the University of Arkansas School of Law has expressed interest in assisting the Community Center in obtaining 501(c)(3) nonprofit status as a community service initiative.

Individuals interested in contributing to the restoration and preservation of the Cascoe Community Center are encouraged to contact Cindy Shelton or any of the barbecue organizers to help support ongoing fundraising efforts and ensure the continued use of this historic community landmark.