Girls Inc. will host the second annual Red on the River Reverse Raffle and Party from 7:30 – 11:30 p.m. June 15 at the Riverpark Center. The event, sponsored by US Bank and Hilliard Lyons-A Baird Company, will offer community members the opportunity to support the mission of Girls Inc. and enjoy great entertainment at the same time.
The Girls Inc mission “inspiring girls to be strong, smart and bold” has been changing young lives in Owensboro since 1969. Some of the programs Girls Inc. supports include Operation SMART, Project Bold, Media Literacy, Sporting Chance and Discover Leadership.
CEO Tish Osborne is excited about this event for many reasons. Two of the featured guests include DJ Shay artist Aaron Kizer, who will be doing a live painting. Osborne said she feels honored to showcase Kizer as he completes a painting of famous women. Although they do not know who he will choose to paint, the suspense is part of his allure.
“This is our first time to have him or anyone else for that matter, joining us to provide arts and entertainment outside of music,” Osborne said.
According to Osborne, excitement over what patrons will gain access to is one of the main reasons this event will be a hit. Each ticket buyer gets admission, opportunities to win prizes in the drawing, hors d’oeuvres provided by Nona’s, a cash bar, an opportunity to watch an artist at work and bid on silent and live auction items. Perhaps the biggest benefit of attending Red on the River is knowing that all proceeds go to a great cause.
“It’s our 50th anniversary of Girls Inc. and we are hoping to grow this event to help us be there for girls in the next 50 years,” Osborne said.
Prizes include vacation packages for a stay at Green Turtle Bay, American Patriot Getaways cabin in Gatlinburg, relaxing time at French Lick with a pass for golfing at Donald Ross Golf Course, Colts Game and overnight stay, Churchill downs box seats, Halo and BBL Laser certificates, and much more. Girls Inc. board members are also committed to donating creative, hot selling items as well. One of this year’s featured prizes includes a Bernedoodle puppy to be provided by Brooks and Bays GoldenDoodles.
“The momma is pregnant now and the winning bid will get to have the pick of the litter,” Osborne said.
Reverse Raffle tickets are $50 each and each ticket is entered into the raffle with equal chances at winning cash along with great items throughout the evening. Only 800 tickets are sold so the chances of being a winner are great. The goal is to be the person with the last ticket to be drawn. The grand prize for the last ticket is $2,500 cash. The second to last winner receives $250.
All the proceeds go to Girls Inc., with the mission of inspiring girls to be strong, smart and bold. Although everyone is encouraged to celebrate and have a good time with friends, you do not have to be present to win.
“There are so many fun and exciting events happening all over Owensboro all the time. We think our largest fundraiser, Red on the River, will be among the most memorable” Osborne said.
Suggested attire is shades of red, but it is not required. The event is $50 a person. Doors open at 7 p.m. Girls Inc. still welcomes sponsors who want to support the event. Tickets are available by contacting 270-684-7833 or contacting a Girls Inc. board member.
