Donations are now being accepted for the live and silent auctions at the 19th annual Sunflower Diversified Services Charity Gala.

The event is scheduled for 5:30-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Columbus Club, 723 Main, Great Bend.

Sunflower serves children and adults with special needs in central Kansas.

“We encourage Sunflower supporters to contribute items for our auctions,” said Cody Harris, director of planned giving and community support. “The items can be big or small, or anything in between, so that we cater to everyone’s budget.”

Anyone who registers for the event before Aug. 30 will pay the early-bird price of $90 for an individual or $700 for a table for eight. After that date the charge is $100 for an individual or $800 for a table of eight.

First-time attendees will pay $75.

In addition to the auctions, “Punch Your Luck,” gun raffles and other games of chance also are on the agenda.

The Band Bartlett of Hays will entertain throughout the evening and dinner will be a whole hog. Adult beverages will be available.

Brian Bellendir is the auctioneer and Scott Donovan will emcee.

“The Gala has a long history of being entertaining, as well as educational,” Harris commented. “Attendees will enjoy a fun evening and have the chance to learn more about the people we serve and the many programs we offer to them.

“Sunflower individuals rely on the community’s generosity to provide many services that are not covered by tax dollars,” he continued. “Those who participate in the Gala always come away knowing that their contributions make a real difference in the lives of their neighbors in central Kansas.”

For more information, contact Harris by calling 620-792-1321 or 620-786-0198.

Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 58th year.