Annual dinner raises funds for Catholic education

By CHARITY SMITH

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Ironwood — Volunteers of all ages gathered at the St. Joseph Room at the Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood over the weekend to make and distribute spaghetti dinners for the 47th annual La Rosa spaghetti dinner fundraiser.

The event raises money for the church’s religious education programming which includes classes for preschool age children, catechism and confirmation classes, Right of Christian Initiation for Adults classes and numerous retreats offered throughout the year and speakers that are brought in.

“It’s mostly for educational purposes, events which help people grow in their faith,” said Alison Schlag, faith formation coordinator for the parish.

More than 1,000 dinners were made this year according to Schlag. The event was held via takeout and delivery only as a result of increased COVID-19 numbers in the area.

“Just to make it more comfortable for those volunteering, but also so that people could enjoy their spaghetti,” said Schlag. “Of course next year we would love to be able to go back to the dining room being open plus takeout.”

Volunteers not only boxed and bagged the dinners, but also brought the meals to awaiting cars. Many of the volunteers were children, including 4-year-old David Hampsten, the youngest, who acted as a runner, bringing the workers whatever small items they needed. Organizers reported 42 people volunteered.

The dinner brought in more than $9,000 in sales. However Schalg said they probably won’t know how much they profited for a couple weeks when they’re done adding up the expenses.

The event is named after the LaRosa Spaghetti Company which initially sponsored the event, said Schlag.

Schlag said the fundraiser has been a popular event in the community over the years.