Casino Night will benefit Make-A-Wish children

YOUNGSTOWN — The Youngstown office of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana, Northeast Ohio Region, announces the third annual Make-A-Wish Foundation Casino Night, set for 6:30-11 p.m. March 20 at the Chevrolet Centre.

The fundraiser is sponsored by GM-UAW, National City, Brilex Industries, Butler Wick, The Muransky Companies, Mix 98.9 and 27 First News Caring for Our Community.

Proceeds from the evening will grant the wishes of local children battling life-threatening medical conditions. The Youngstown satellite office grants approximately 35 wishes a year for local children. Right now, 20 children are waiting to have their wishes granted.

The event will feature hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, live music, gaming, a live auction and prizes. Professional gaming tables staffed by volunteer celebrity dealers, such as Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, will enable the guests to enjoy poker, blackjack, Texas Hold’em and other exciting casino games. There will be no cash payouts from gaming; this is a for-fun-only event.

“Even though the Mahoning Valley is experiencing the effects of the nationwide economic downturn, I am heartened to see incredible generosity among businesses and individuals,” said Danette Palmer, development officer.

Palmer continued: “I think people understand that no matter how tough things are, our ‘wish families’ are facing the overwhelming emotional, physical and financial burdens of caring for a seriously ill child. I’m very proud to live in a community that looks out for its own the way we do.”

Last year, Casino Night raised more than $90,000 and enabled the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant the wishes of 15 local children.

To participate

Individual tickets are $65 and include $10 in gaming chips. Sponsorship opportunities and High Roller packages are still available. Contact Palmer at (330) 965-9085 or danettep@makeawishohio.org for more information.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana is celebrating 25 years of operation. Since the first wish was granted in 1984, the chapter has granted more than 7,300 wishes This year, it will work to fulfill the wishes of a record-breaking 800 local children. There are many ways to help create joyful moments for local children with wishes. Find out how at www.makeawishohio.org.