It takes a village to raise a child. Each day in Ohio, more than 430,000 children leave school and don’t have a place to go. That’s where The Boys and Girls Clubs of Toledo step in, to fill the void between school and home.
With four locations throughout the city, The Boys and Girls Clubs of Toledo provide a safe place for children of all ages to learn and grow. An average of 6,000 members come through the clubs every year and are coached on academic success, good character and healthy lifestyles.
More than 90% of club members qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches, and more than 60% of the members are 12 years old or younger.
“For nearly 125 years, our Clubs have provided a safe haven for youth in central Toledo,” said Billy Mann, director of development.
A night of fun, for a good cause
The largest fundraiser for clubs is the annual Barefoot at the Beach event.
“It really helps us with our operational budget, so we rely on it every year,” to raise more than $200,000 for the clubs, Mann said.
The theme of this year’s Barefoot at the Beach is East Coast, so break out those Bermudas and sandals for a night of fun, food and drinks.
“Guests are going to feel as though they are on the shores of Newport Beach,” Mann said. “It’s going to feel very nautical.”
Wine and dine
In addition to wearing nautical attire, guests should bring an appetite for food offerings from 30 different Toledo food establishments and a bar fully stocked with a variety of East Coast themed beers and upscale wines.
Enjoy live music from three bands over the course of the evening: Madison Avenue Band, a high-energy rock-rhythm and blues cover band; DJ OneTyme, with more than 20 years of experience spinning vinyl; and Glass City Steel Drum Band.
Presented by Fifth Third Bank, Barefoot at the Beach is in its 15th year. There will be a fireworks display, bonfires by the water and a cigar bar during the evening. Tickets are $100 and can be ordered online or by calling 419-241-4258. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend.
6pm | Saturday | August 13 | $100
Maumee Bay State Park | 1400 State Park Rd.
419-241-4258 | bgctoledo.org | www.barefootatthebeach.org
