As autumn takes hold in Ann Arbor, there’s more than just the crunch of leaves underfoot and the anticipation of Halloween in the air. Fostering Futures is busy preparing for their 3rd annual Halloween Fundraiser being held on Friday, October 20.
The organization, with its mission to “provide a safe, healthy, informed, and supportive environment where all people can grow and thrive” has been a cornerstone for foster children since 2010. As a child welfare organization that provides foster care and adoption services and placement, Executive Director Jennifer Milliman shares that they “have always focused on providing clinically-sound, trauma informed, inclusive…” practices.
Spooky fun for a cause
The idea of a Halloween-themed event sprouted from a desire for inclusivity and fun.
“We wanted to do something that appealed to everyone, not just people who golf,” Milliman explains.
And what better way than a festive occasion centered around a universally beloved holiday?
Over the years, the dollars raised from this annual signature fundraiser have been instrumental.
“We use the money from this event for a variety of things…which have included help with groceries for relative caregivers who are unexpectedly caring for as many as 5 siblings at once, help with extracurricular activities, Chromebooks and also special gifts and items of appreciation for front-line licensing, foster care and adoption workers,” Milliman said.
Bidding fun
This year, they’re ramping up the silent auction at their event, so there’s more time for everyone to join in the bidding fun, hit the dance floor and just soak up the good times without any pause in the festivities. Sounds like a blast, doesn’t it?
Unique experiences like a night out in Ann Arbor with hotel and dinner, a day trip to Plymouth, a collection of spirits from Ann Arbor Distilling Company and a golf package will be available for bidding.
Milliman emphasizes the variety, stating, “There are fun, unique items for a variety of people!”
Music, costumes, food and more
But, the fun doesn’t stop there. Milliman shares details about the festive atmosphere the event promises, “We will have a live MC/DJ, a photobooth, a photographer, pizza dinner provided by Aubree’s and an open bar including cocktails made with spirits from the Ann Arbor Distilling Company!”
The costume contest boasts categories like Scariest, Most Creative, and Best Overall, judged by a panel and features enticing prizes like gift cards to places such as MDen and local restaurants. So, go ahead and get your BOO on!
They’ve thought of every last detail and have even thoughtfully partnered with the Marriott Residence Inn in downtown Ann Arbor to provide a block of King Studio Hotel rooms.
These rooms are $249/night and are available Friday, 10/20/23 – Sunday, 10/22/23. This is just a few blocks away from event location at The Ann Arbor Club at 103 East Liberty Street, Suite 300.
As Halloween nears and Ann Arbor gets ready to celebrate, remember that amidst the costumes and candy, there’s an opportunity to make a real difference. Purchase your tickets or donate to join Fostering Futures in their quest to create brighter futures, one child at a time.
