BENTON — The Junior Auxiliary of Benton presents the 14th annual Children’s Benefit, “Mardi Gras Unmasked,” on Friday, Feb. 26, at 6:30 p.m. at the VFW Post in Benton.
The event will feature a silent auction, dinner and music featuring local band Tragikly White.[more]
Tickets are $40 each or $75 per couple and are available by calling 501-909-9304.
A highlight of the evening’s festivities will be the presentation of the “Kindle Thy Flame” community service award. The annual award, which was first given in 2003, is presented the evening of the event and honors a deserving volunteer in the community. Previous recipients of the award were Connie Brandon (2003), Paul Hyatt (2004), Robert Herzfeld Sr. (2005), Susie Everett (2006), Pam Ray (2007), Marilyn Schick (2008), and Selina Ellis (2009).
The award’s name, “Kindle Thy Flame” is based on the opening prayer from the National Association of Junior Auxiliaries. The prayer reportedly refers to the organization’s response to the needs of communities through programs that benefit children and families. The award is made possible each year by donations made by sponsors.
Volunteers in Saline County give their time and energy to projects that better the community. They touch the lives of families and children without seeking recognition for a job well done. This award allows us to spotlight the wonderful work they do which makes a difference in our community. The 2010 award recipient will be presented a plaque at the upcoming annual children’s benefit.
Sponsorships for this event are still available. To receive more information and pricing or to become a sponsor, contact Leslie Reid at 501-804-6320. Individual tickets are $40 individually or $75 per couple, and can be obtained by calling 501-909-9304.
About Our Organization
The Junior Auxiliary of Benton has been serving Saline County for more than 30 years and is dedicated to community improvement by meeting the needs of children, youth, and families.
The organization’s slogan, in keeping with this volunteer spirit, is “Care Today, Character Tomorrow.”
JA of Benton is a volunteer organization made up of fifty plus women who oversee projects that directly impact child welfare. A few examples of these projects are as follows:
• JA on Call—Through the assistance of school personnel, needed items such as medication, clothing, coats, and shoes are provided to school children.
• Gathering of Dreams—Families are “adopted” and clothes, supplies, and food are provided to them throughout the year. JA members act as a “big sister” to the children by helping out at school and with personal issues.
• Santa’s Helpers—Invitations are sent to children through the school district based on need. Children and their parents attend a hot breakfast, talk with Santa, make a craft and take home a photo with Santa. Each child also receives a donated items and necessities such as backpacks filled with personal items and warm gloves and hats.
In the past year alone, Junior Auxiliary of Benton has reached thousands of children in Saline County and has the potential to reach 12,000. It is the organization’s goal to raise enough funds to prevent having to turn anyone in need away. It is through the Annual Children’s Benefit fundraiser that projects and scholarships are funded.
Additional information about the Kindle Thy Flame award or other JA programs is available by calling 909-9304 or by visiting www.juniorauxiliaryofbenton.org.
