ELLINWOOD — For those who like to throw the dice, the Kansas Sidewinders Motorcycle Club, 21 N. Main, in Ellinwood will hold a Casino Night United Way Fundraiser from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

Play black jack, roulette, and shoot craps for $20. One hundred percent of the proceeds benefit United Way.

"It’s a wonderful evening," said Mike Morris, club member. "I have a blast. Everyone’s friendly. Hopefully we’ll have a good turnout and make a lot of money for UW."

For your $20, you’ll receive $10,000 in play money which will be used at the tables. Then, for $5,000, a raffle ticket can be purchased for prizes such as a flat screen TV, beef bundle and cash prizes. At the end of the evening, tickets are drawn. Throughout the evening, door prizes such as tools and a cooler will be given away.

In addition, each of the 19 agencies that receive funds from UW will make a basket for a silent auction.

"We have been working hard to generate interest," said Morris.

Beer and food will be available for sale. Last year, the group raised $3,000, raising up to $7,000 in prior years. The Sidewinders have been holding Casino Night for the past six to eight years.

"I can’t stress enough the importance of giving," said UW Director Julie Bugner-Smith. "It’s a fun evening and a good date night."

"We really appreciate the Sidewinders," she said. "They make a big contribution that helps us meet our goal. We could not do it without these fundraisers."

"They are an exceptional group," she said. "They are great to work with."

The UW agencies include such organizations as the American Red Cross, CASA, Catholic Social Services, Eldercare, the Family Crisis Center, RSVP, Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army, Teen Court, and the Boy and Girl Scouts.

The UW goal for 2011 is to raise $225,000; they have reached 30% of that. Of the funds raised for UW, 99% stays in Barton County.

The best part of Bugner-Smith’s job, she reports, is the reward of seeing and talking with the agencies that benefit.

Donations can be made at the unitedwaybartoncounty@hotmail.com or call 620-792-2403.