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IRON MOUNTAIN -- After transporting guests into a modern-day speakeasy last year, the Northern Lights YMCA is taking a sweeter approach to its annual Ritz & Raffles fundraiser.
This year's theme, "How Sweet It Is," will transform Iron & Aster, formerly Oddfellows, into a pastel wonderland of cotton candy skies and candy-coated dreams for the event Saturday, Oct. 17, which falls on Sweetest Day.
Ritz & Raffles is the YMCA's largest annual fundraising event, with proceeds supporting its annual campaign. The campaign provides financial assistance for YMCA memberships and helps subsidize programming at the Dickinson Center, ensuring that individuals and families are able to participate regardless of income.
Last year, the YMCA provided assistance to 676 individuals, ranging from veterans participating in fitness classes to children making new friends at summer day camp. Funds raised through the event stay in the local community.
The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with sweet and savory bites from Millie's Market, gift baskets, 50-50 raffles, door prizes and a specially designed jewelry piece from Erickson Jewelers. Victorious will provide live music, while CleverDuck Entertainment will offer guests the opportunity to take home a keepsake photo.
Raffles will wrap up at 7:30 p.m., followed by an evening of music and dancing. DJ Curio will keep the party going until midnight.
Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme by dressing in pink, pastels, iridescent fabrics and shimmer, with satin, tulle, ruffles and bows encouraged. Patterned jackets, colorful dress shirts and ties also fit the theme.
Costumes are optional, but guests can compete for several awards, including Candy King and Queen, Best Dressed Couple and the Sweetest Style Award for the best individually dressed partygoer.
"Ritz & Raffles is all about having fun, supporting our community, and enjoying a wonderful night together," said Wendy Schmitt, Dickinson Center director. "Come dressed up, come casual, or somewhere in-between -- just like we say at the Y, you are welcome just exactly as you are."
The event is supported by sponsors Bacco Construction, Marshfield Medical Center, Town & Country Ford and Erickson Jewelers, along with silent sponsors.
"Their generosity adds the extra sweetness that makes this special evening possible," Schmitt said. "They are the secret ingredient behind our fundraising success, helping us create a night filled with fun, laughter, and memorable moments while supporting the YMCA's mission."
The sponsors' support helps the YMCA continue providing services in the community throughout the year.
"We are incredibly grateful for their generous support and for helping us create a memorable evening that will help fuel the future of the YMCA," she said.
Tickets are $45 per person, $80 per couple or $300 for a table of eight. Tickets are available at the YMCA front desk or by calling 906-774-4076.
The Northern Lights YMCA encourages community members to come ready for an evening of music, raffles, food and fun while helping support access to YMCA programs and services for local residents.