Although the theme of the Ghoulwill Ball, a costume benefit for Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio, is old Hollywood, eventgoers can be as creative as they wish.
“Obviously if you come as a hot dog or something, we’re OK with it. Any costume you want to come in, we’re OK,” said David Takats, director of fund development and marketing.
The Northwest Ohio chapter has traditionally done a golf-outing fundraiser in the past, but was looking to do something more creative, Takats said.
“Some other Goodwills have done [Ghoulwill Balls] in the previous few years and it has been very successful for them,” he said.
Originally, the inaugural ball was set for last year, but plans fell through. This year is different with 25 sponsors already on board, Takats said.
“Goodwill is very well-received in the community, and what we do [in the community] and I think the uniqueness and fun leads the sponsors to want to get on board,” he added.
The Oct. 27 party begins at 7 p.m. at Brandywine Country Club, 6904 Salisbury Road, Maumee. There will be a cash bar and several different types of cuisine — Mexican, American, Asian and garden food stations will be available.
In addition to raffles and a costume contest, there will be other treats like a photo booth and a candy station.
“We’ve put together a really cool candy table with all these big jars and things around, where you can take candy home at the end of the night,” Takats said.
A dance teacher will also show the crowd how to do the dance from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video. The best dancer will receive a prize.
Funk band Tantric Soul with Carmen Miller is set to perform at the benefit.
“[Miller’s] unbelievable. She’s like, imagine a young Tina Turner,” Takats said. Miller is also a board member for Goodwill of Northwest Ohio.
Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio helps people with various barriers in finding employment, Takats said. Forbes recently named Goodwill one of the top 25 most inspiring companies in the country.
Goodwill also has several retail locations for used goods throughout Northwest Ohio. For more information, visit http:// www.goodwillnwohio.com/.
Takats said fun is the No. 1 goal for the inaugural Ghoulwill Ball. He hopes people will “just enjoy themselves. Wear a fun costume; have a couple drinks, some food. Listen to a fantastic band and have a great night and hopefully by the end of the night, they think, ‘We really like Goodwill.’”
Tickets are $50 per person and $90 per couple. Tickets are $40 for individuals in groups of four or more people. Only those older than 21 can attend. To purchase, visit www.goodwill nwohio.com/ghoulwillball/.
