The Bloomington-Normal Y holds a Strong Kids fundraiser every year, to help families who can't afford programs and membership to the Y. (Photo by Stephanie Pawlowski/WJBC)

By Stephanie Pawlowski

BLOOMINGTON - The Bloomington Normal YMCA will host a block party next week.

The Strong Kids Block Party will benefit the annual Strong Kids campaign, helping people who can't afford the programs and membership to the Y.

Marketing and Membership Director Alicia Whitworth said the $50 tickets include a concert with Sister Groove and Austin Found, tailgate food, alcohol and a chance in the raffle.

"We have really fantastic sponsors who allowed us to cover the cost of food and drink and things like that," Whitworth said. "So, everyone who buys a ticket, every dollar of that ticket goes toward kids and families in our community."

Everyone's ticket is also good for one raffle entry, Whitworth said, but, there will be opportunities to buy more raffle tickets.

The party is Friday, Sept. 28 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the DoubleTree by Hilton parking lot. Whitworth said it is an unusual location for a block party.

"We know that people are probably thinking, 'Ok, it's in a parking lot.' But, the whole idea behind the venue is to give people the feeling of one of the old fashioned community block parties," Whitworth said. "So, think back to times when people would have barricades up at the end of their blocks and everyone would come out of their houses and join together for fellowship."

The Strong Kids campaign had a strong start earlier this year toward the $125,000 goal, but the campaign continues until the end of the year.
 

Stephanie Pawlowski can be reached at Stephanie.Pawlowski@Cumulus.com.