BROOKINGS — Brookings Area United Way invites the public to a special event at Sanderson Gardens on Oct. 1.

That day, the public can pick pumpkins and raspberries knowing that 100% of all sales will be donated toward the United Way fundraising campaign.

“It’s a terrific fall activity that everyone can participate in,” United Way Development Director Randy Grimsley said. “It’s the perfect day to bring the family and pick pumpkins and fresh raspberries — as much as you like. Best of all, the generosity of Sanderson Gardens means that every penny you spend helps fund the numerous nonprofits and programs needed in our community.”

Brookings Area United Way’s multiple programs and network of supported nonprofits impact one out of every three people in the county. Their efforts impact areas such as food security, safety, mental health matters, education, and more, with services covering all of Brookings County.

The United Way forecasts a need of $1.2 million to meet area nonprofit funding requests and continue vital programming.

The public is urged to bring their own containers to fill, as they can load up on as many pumpkins and raspberries as desired. Sanderson Gardens is well known in the area for its variety of fresh produce the public can help directly harvest.

The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sanderson Gardens is just east of Brookings on U.S. Highway 14 near Aurora.

For more information, contact Brookings Area United Way at uw@brookingsunitedway.org or by calling 605-692-4979.