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Tuesday, 22 July 2025
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Written by Lena Simmons
For it is giving that we receive.
—St. Francis of Assisi
The Sons of the Savior Motorcycle Ministry of Fayetteville is hosting the Christmas in July Toy Run to benefit the Salvation Army of Fayetteville Angel Tree Program and Fayetteville Urban Ministries on Aug. 2, 2025. The event will be held at Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Coffee and donuts will be available upon registration at 9:30 a.m. At 11 a.m., it will be time for “kickstands up;” an escorted ride to the Salvation Army of Fayetteville will commence, ending with hamburgers and hot dogs. The registration fee is $10, and a new, unwrapped toy is required for all riders. The sponsors for this event are Sons of the Savior MM Exodus Chapter, the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson. For more information, contact email sonsofthesavior.fayetteville.nc@gmail.com
Scott Justus, Robert House, Gary Benfield and Roy Shelson founded the Sons of the Savior MM in March 2014. The gentlemen knew the need for a brotherhood and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but more importantly, put their faith into action.
“We like to say we are a ministry with a riding habit. We thank the Salvation Army for their leadership and shared vision,” they said.
The founders have diverse backgrounds ranging from drug abuse to being a first responder, a business owner and a professional wrestler. The Sons of the Savior MM has various chapters of the motorcycle ministries, such as Genesis, Exodus, Dauntless, Legacy, and Agape. Two new motorcycle ministries are opening in Topeka, Kansas, and Austin, Texas.
The statement of purpose of the Sons of the Savior MM Exodus Chapter is to go into the world and preach the gospel.
“I have experienced a lifelong association with the Salvation Army, beginning at birth as the child of officers, who served as ordained ministers. I have consistently attended the Salvation Army church and supported its mission throughout my life. My life-long commitment is serving individuals in need without discrimination,” said Norman Zanders, president, Sons of the Savior MM Exodus Chapter. “I have served in the capacity of Emergency Disaster and Volunteer Coordinator at the Salvation Army for the past five years. One of my responsibilities consisted of participating in the Angel Tree program during Christmas time. It is vital to ensure that children in need receive gifts through the generosity of community donors and volunteers.”
The group aims to offer companionship and assistance to bikers as well as others encountered during the rides and gatherings, regardless of individual backgrounds or beliefs. The focus seeks to share encouragement, support during times of need, difficulty, bereavement, happiness, and celebration. Membership is open to motorcycle riders and people who drive automobiles.
“Every year, the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office conducts 'Shop with A Sheriff' Christmas in July toy drive. The Toy Drive is usually the last week in July at the various Walmart stores in Cumberland County. The donations are divided between the Salvation Army and Fayetteville Urban Ministries,” Zanders said. “This year, Sons of the Savior asked if we could partner with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a Christmas in July Toy Run to wrap up their ‘Shop with the Sheriff’ event. The answer was a resounding yes. The event on Aug. 2, will feature coffee, donuts, Christmas music, and Salvation Army mascot, Captain Kettle. The community style picnic serving hamburgers and hot dogs will be located at the Salvation Army Shelter, 245 Alexander Street.”
Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day, states Sally Koch. Share a small opportunity and purchase a new, unwrapped toy for the Christmas in July Toy Run.
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Tuesday, 22 July 2025
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Written by Jamie Bishop
This summer, Fayetteville’s military pride will take center stage at the Soldiers United Day Party, a community celebration that honors service members and brings people together through music, motorcycles, and meaningful connections.
Set for Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the event will be held at Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson, located at 3950 Sycamore Dairy Road. It is free and open to the public, welcoming veterans, active-duty service members, military families, and civilian supporters for a high-energy, family-friendly afternoon.
The party will feature local food trucks, music, raffles, vendors, and special attractions for kids, offering something for everyone who attends.
At the heart of the event is Jennifer Motley, a dedicated military spouse and longtime Fayetteville resident who has worked closely with veterans and support networks. She sees this gathering as a chance to give back to a community that has given so much.
“Our military families experience a lot of deployments, relocations, transitions,” Motley said. “We wanted to create a space where they can just breathe, feel appreciated, and enjoy themselves. That’s what this day is all about.”
In addition to live music and festive activities, the event will include a 50/50 raffle to support local outreach programs for veterans and military families. Proceeds will be allocated to organizations that provide mental health services, transitional housing, and reintegration support for individuals transitioning from active duty.
“This isn’t just a celebration, it’s a cause,” Motley said. “The money we raise will go directly to programs helping the people this community depends on. We want to make sure our veterans are seen, heard, and supported.”
Motley emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, not just for military personnel but for the broader Fayetteville community as well.
“You don’t have to ride a motorcycle or wear a uniform to be part of this day,” she said. “Everyone is invited, because this is about building unity across our city.”
When asked what inspired her involvement, Motley pointed to the gaps she’s seen in the transition process for many service members.
“The military does a great job preparing people for combat, but the return to civilian life can be isolating,” she said. “Events like this help fill that space with joy, connection, and shared experience.”
The venue will transform into a vibrant festival ground, with shaded areas for relaxation, tables for food vendors, and stages set for music and announcements. Local artisans and veteran-owned businesses will also be on-site, showcasing handmade crafts, apparel, and wellness items.
Children can enjoy face painting, inflatable games, and interactive activities in a designated kids’ area, while adults mingle, dance, and take part in the raffle or vendor offerings.
Organizers encourage guests to dress comfortably and bring lawn chairs, especially if they plan to stay for the full event. Parking is free and available on-site, with additional volunteer support to help guide traffic and ensure accessibility.
Motley hopes attendees will walk away with more than just good memories.
“My hope is that people leave feeling uplifted and maybe even inspired to get involved, to check in on a veteran they know, or to just keep building community wherever they are,” she said.
The Soldiers United Day Party is more than a weekend gathering. It’s a reminder of the strength, resilience, and unity that define Fayetteville’s identity. Through the rhythm of music, the hum of engines, and the warmth of connection, this event promises to be a celebration to remember.
(Photo: Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson hosts an event. Harley-Davidson frequently holds events that honor members of the community. The Soldier United Day party will be another example of giving back to the military community. Photos courtesy of Fort Bragg Harley-Davidson Facebook page)
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