This weekend the Pella Pizza Ranch is holding an event in memory of a Pella Teen. Blake Van Vark died in a car crash almost two weeks ago during icy conditions. Shortly before his death Blake had committed to join Baja 101, a Mission to build homes in Mexico with the Third Reformed Church. To honor his wishes, on Saturday the Pella Pizza Ranch will be holding an all day fundraising event. From open to close Saturday Pizza Ranch will donate all profits from both in store, and delivery sales to the Baja mission. Additionally each of the employees at the Pizza Ranch are donating a day of their wages, and tips collected during the event by Blake’s church group will go to the cause.

Owner Chad Ver Steeg tells KNIA/KRLS News that the response they’ve received from volunteers and organizations who want to help with the event has been overwhelming. Several Local businesses have offered merchandise free of charge to sell for the cause, and many locals have offered to help cook and deliver throughout the day. Ver Steeg thinks that the extra help will be essential, as he expects that the community will come and show their support for Blake and the Baja mission in large numbers. Central College has offered overflow parking space for the event.