This story originally appeared in The Centre County Gazette.
A sea of red wigs and oversized jewelry will take over downtown State College on Saturday, June 28, and for a good cause.
The second annual Mrs. Roper Romp, a themed bar crawl inspired by the iconic character from the hit 1970s sitcom “Three’s Company,” is more than just a blast from the past. It’s a party with a purpose: all proceeds go to support Out of the Cold Centre County, a nonprofit that provides shelter, transitional housing and critical services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Out of the Cold began in response to a tragic reality: a man died while sleeping in a tent during a harsh Pennsylvania winter. In the wake of his death, a group of downtown churches came together to offer temporary overnight shelter in their buildings. What started as a volunteer effort has since evolved into a full-fledged organization, complete with a permanent facility at 318 S. Atherton St.
“We have a house that houses 18 people, and those people can spend the night and are fed meals throughout the day,” Amy Bowser, an Out of the Cold board member, said. “We also have a day shelter where people can come in and use all the things that we have available, such as caseworkers and computers to look for work.”
The nonprofit also offers transitional housing with apartments and homes where people can stay while working toward permanent stability. Out of the Cold even assists with rent if someone loses a job or falls ill, thanks to donations.
“We’ve had waiting lists of 40 people before,” Bowser said. “Right now, it’s closer to 10, probably because of the warmer weather. But we’re almost always at capacity.”
“Most of the people staying there are working. They just need a place to land so they can get back on their feet. It’s amazing to see the transformation,” She added.
The idea for the Mrs. Roper Romp started like many great things do, in a moment of curiosity and inspiration. Bowser stumbled on photos of similar events happening around the country, where groups would gather in costume to celebrate and have a good time.
“I thought, why not do this here and make it a fundraiser?” she said. “We’re already having fun — let’s raise awareness and money too.”
The first romp drew about 40 participants, dressed in tribute to the flamboyant landlord Helen Roper: red wigs, flowy caftans, chunky beads and all. The group paraded through downtown bars, stopping for drinks, photos and plenty of laughs.
This year, the crawl kicks off at Doggies Pub at 2 p.m. before heading to Pickles, Chumley’s and Champs, then looping back to Doggies for raffles and fundraising. Bowser has prepared 14 gift baskets packed with local goods and gift cards.
Specialty cocktails at each bar will also help raise money for the organization. Just order the featured drink and a portion of the proceeds goes directly to Out of the Cold.
“You don’t even have to dress up,” Bowser said. “Just come out and enjoy the show. We’ve had people show up as Mr. Furley, Chrissy, even Janet. It’s just a blast.”
The event is more than just nostalgia. For Bowser and others, it’s become a meaningful way to give back, have fun and bring people together in a season when downtown can feel a bit quiet.
With hopes of topping last year’s $1,000 raised, Bowser is optimistic.
“This year I’m able to walk the crawl and talk about Out of the Cold,” she said. “Last year, I was stuck at Doggies running the raffle table. So my intention this year is to follow the bar crawl and maybe be out speaking about Out of the Cold and what we’re doing this year.”
“I love putting the baskets together,” She added with a laugh.
For those on the fence about dressing up, Bowser is clear: “Come as you are!”
“I’ve had friends say, ‘I don’t want to wear the outfit,’ and I tell them, fine. Just come. Buy some raffle tickets. Have a drink. It’s inclusive.”
From spirited costumes and throwback vibes to raffle prizes and heartfelt purpose, the Mrs. Roper Romp is fast becoming one of the quirkiest, most joyful ways to support an essential local mission here in Centre County.
For more information, visit the State College Mrs. Roper Romp Facebook page or visit Out of the Cold at outofthecoldcc.org.
