An annual event that helps connect people with opportunities to serve others is heading into its fifth year.

On Nov. 6, MissionFest will take place at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau. It runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Cheryl Mothes, the event’s chief organizer, said she’s hoping at least 250 visitors will attend — especially those who have been thinking about volunteering but didn’t know where to go or whom to call.

“Now they can plug in and find the mission opportunity for them,” she said.

During last year’s event, also held at the Osage Centre, about 50 ministries showed their humanitarian projects to 140 attendees.

“Anybody can have a table and share their passion,” she said.

This year, a few new attractions likely will boost attendance numbers, including lunch, which will be $4 a person with proceeds benefiting missions through the Knights of Columbus.

Another new addition will be the opportunity to do some immediate, hands-on work packing 75,000 meals for the Food Bank of Southeast Missouri and to benefit disaster-relief efforts in Haiti.

Finally, a faith-based international marketplace will feature vendors selling jewelry, window glass, shirts and other apparel items.

“You can start your Christmas shopping, and for a good cause,” Mothes said.

At this point, a few openings are left for volunteers who like to pack meals, and free booth spaces still are available.

Although there isn’t a set number for people to call for more information, Mothes said regularly updated content is available at www.missionfestcape.org or www.facebook.com/MissionFestCape-419646448091669.

“We just want more people to come,” Mothes said. “It’s a very high-energy, exciting place to be.”

ljones@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3652

Pertinent address:

1625 N. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, Mo.