Sunflower Diversified Services will host an activity-filled weekend to celebrate its 45th birthday and thank central Kansans for their support throughout the years.

Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves infants, toddlers and adults with developmental disabilities in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties.

The activities will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 4, with a hot-dog picnic on the south side of Veteran’s Lake in Great Bend. The picnic is on a first-come, first-served basis for 750 hot dogs. Fireworks will start at dark, and they can be viewed from either the north or south shore. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and snacks.

On Sunday, June 5, Sunflower will host an open house from 1:30-4 p.m. at its 1521 K-96 facility. Refreshments will be served.

"Staff members and volunteers will share information and displays about Sunflower’s many programs for children and adults," said Jim Johnson, executive director. "We will not only welcome, but also encourage questions from the public as they tour our facility.

"This special weekend is our way of thanking our supporters for their commitment to the people we serve every day," Johnson continued. "And we want to take every opportunity to share the message of our dedication to people with developmental disabilities."

"We appreciate the many people who have donated time and money to make this fun weekend possible," Johnson said. "For 45 years, our supporters have understood our special mission – to enhance people’s lives and allow them to reach the highest level of independence. This would not be possible without the community’s support and we want to express our gratitude in this special way."