Community togetherness is known as a way of life on Mercer Island.

For the sixth consecutive year, Mercer Island resident David Schiller will conduct his annual Free Throws for MS fundraiser, which will take place from 12:30-5 p.m. on Jan. 27 at the Stroum Jewish Community Center on Mercer Island. Schiller put together the event in 2013 to raise awareness for multiple sclerosis after his father and brother, Mike, were diagnosed with the disease.

“I decided I wanted to do something for Mike and do something for my dad who both have MS,” Schiller said during a phone interview. “My brother and I both have a love for basketball. We have been playing at the JCC (Jewish Community Center) on Mercer Island since we were 5 years old. It just kind of came to me that this would be a great thing to do. I’m going to make 1,000 (free throws) and Mike is going to make 100 of his own this year.”

Schiller said he expects 50 to 60 individuals to trickle through the doors throughout the four-and-a-half hour event.

“The support from the community has been overwhelming. From those who have generously given contributions to those just coming out and stopping in for a little bit on Saturday, the moral support is incredible. There is always a constant flow of people throughout the day. It is not just about shooting free throws. It is about people interacting with those they haven’t seen in awhile. It is a social thing, a community thing where everyone is coming together for a really good cause.”

Refreshments including Krispy Kreme donuts will be available throughout the day as well. For more information or to make a contribution, visit www.freethrowsforms.com.