YMCA finalizing 5th annual Saturday Night Lights fundraising event; sponsorships still available

The New Tampa Family YMCA will host its 5th annual “Saturday Night Lights” party on Saturday, October 3 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the New Tampa Family YMCA.

This casual, football-themed event will raise funds to benefit the YMCA’s Building Strong Kids Campaign, which provides scholarships for children and families with special physical and financial needs who cannot otherwise afford the benefits of the YMCA.

“Last year's event was such a hit, that we've decided to continue with that theme,” said Ginger Bean, event chairperson. “Attendees will enjoy supporting their favorite teams while sampling local restaurants' favorite dishes and bidding on unique auction items.  And the best part is, the proceeds will provide opportunities for less fortunate families to participate in the programs and benefits of the YMCA.”

Guests will don their favorite team attire and enjoy football games live on large-screen TV’s at the event. The event ticket includes dinner from a variety of local restaurants, an open bar, dancing, entertainment, and a large silent auction for guests to enjoy while mingling with friends and cheering on their favorite teams.

Each year, the New Tampa Family YMCA provides over $350,000 in scholarship support to families in the New Tampa area who would otherwise be unable to afford the benefits of the YMCA.  These scholarships send children to summer camp, provide swim lessons and enable families to come together in a safe and healthy environment that the YMCA offers. It is precisely these scholarships which the Building Strong Kids Campaign supports with a fundraiser like Saturday Night Lights.

“Thanks to the many members and community partners that give so generously to this effort, the Y is able to help hundreds of families belong to the Y. This is what makes the Y different!”  said Board of Directors Chair Jennifer Bakunas. “Our Saturday Night Lights special event is another way the Y engages our community and members.”

Event sponsors include the following major sponsors: Sate Farm, returning sponsor Aaron’s, and returning sponsor Bank of Tampa. Additional event sponsors are Saddlebrook Resort, Florida Native Landscape, Bridgeway Church and Frito Lay. The YMCA is still seeking sponsors for the event. Food for the event will be provided by the following local restaurants: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, Chick-fil-A, Ciccio’s / The Lodge, Circles New Tampa Bistro, Starbucks, Stonewood Grill and Tavern, and Sweetbay Supermarket. Beverage sponsors include Yuengling, The Brass Tap, and Coca-Cola.  The event committee is headed by Ginger Bean, event chairperson, and includes advisory board members Arlene Alicea, Jennifer Bakunas, Michael Benedict, John Choronenko, Wesley Dykes, Mercy Gonzalez Hale, Carlos McCain, Ernie Marquart, Lucia Moya, Pete Radeka, Amy Rainey, Shaun Robinson and Christi Slaven.

Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door. Event sponsorships and a limited number of reserved “MVP Package” tables are also available. For more information, please contact Beatriz Fregoso, 813-866-9622 or bfregoso@tampaymca.org.