Frank memorial fund prepares for 4th annual benefit

The Hunter Alexander Frank Memorial Fund will be hosting its 4th annual fundraising benefit Saturday, September 14, 2024 at the Steele County Beer Gardens and is currently collecting donations. This year’s event will include the memorial ride, car and bike show, cornhole tournament, silent auction, live entertainment, and other family-oriented activities. The donation goal for 2024 is $15,000, to be totaled after the event. As of 2024, the foundation has also officially obtained 501(c)(3) status, which they say would not have been possible without community support.

 

Hunter Frank was born in Owatonna in April of 2000 and graduated from Owatonna High School in 2018. Immediately after graduating, he enlisted with the U.S. Navy as an Aircrewman with the VP-26 Tridents. On October 17, 2020, he lost his life while on deployment to El Salvador. “Hunter was always a beacon of joy to those around him, and he was always willing to drop everything to help out anyone in need,” says the foundation team. The Hunter Alexander Frank Memorial Fund was established to continue that legacy.

 

In 2021, Hunter’s older brother and President of the foundation, Brandon Flores, hosted a memorial motorcycle ride in the Waseca and Owatonna area. The turnout from the ride inspired his family to go bigger, and in 2022 they hosted a second memorial ride followed by a benefit dinner and silent auction, where they raised $10,500, which was donated to Wounded Warriors Family Support (WWFS) in Frank’s name. In 2023, the foundation took it one step further by hosting an entire day of events which produced $11,200 to donate to WWFS. WWFS is a Nebraska-based foundation providing support for veterans and their families nationwide. To learn more about WWFS, visit their website at wwfs.org.

 

There are several ways to help. The silent auction is a huge source of the foundation’s funding, and donations such as gift certificates, merchandise and services are what make it possible. Businesses and individuals can also become a sponsor at the bronze, silver, or gold levels and receive benefits in exchange for their donation. Those wishing to make a monetary donation who cannot afford the sponsorship packages are also a big part of the foundation’s fundraising efforts. There is also the opportunity to volunteer time and relevant services on September 14 at the event. To donate or register as a volunteer, or to learn more about Hunter Frank and the foundation, visit hafmemorial.org.