The following is a brief of the story. For the full version, see the Friday, July 3 print edition of the BDN.

You may have heard it said that buying fireworks is like burning money, and depending on how you look at it, it may seem like just that. That is unless your buying them from a ministry where the profits are going to benefit a worthy cause.

The program was started four years ago by a local businessman, Jim Edwards, who’s son, Tim, was in need of a liver transplant. As bills mounted he realized that his son would need help. And thanks to community efforts and fundraising, Tim made it through the ordeal. He landed on his feet running and currently coaches baseball.

As a result of his son’s crisis, Jim brainstormed the idea for Fireworks for Life that helps people in a crisis, such as his son’s. The organization is sponsored by First Baptist Church in Boonville and run by the church’s youth ministry group. 50 percent of proceeds from the firework sales are used to help offset expenses to those who need or receive organ transplants; 10 percent goes to the youth ministry group who’s members volunteer their time in the firework stand; and five percent goes to the ministry site. The remainder goes back into operational expenses and inventory.

To contact Karla Terry, email karla@boonvilledailynews.com