• 
• CLASS
• JOBS
• AUTO
• HOMES

New Year's Eve party pays off big for charity

JANESVILLE — The numbers look good.

A family-friendly New Year's Eve party at the Janesville Athletic Club:

-- Provided free music and activities for more than 700 people.

-- Raised $12,755 for Love INC and the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville.

-- Provided volunteer opportunities for more than 135 teens and adults.

"So many families came up to me to say, 'Thank you' for putting on this event," said Raejene Schlenke, Love INC executive director.

One couple who was celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary decided to spend the evening at the club with their family because "they knew it would be a blast," Schlenke said.

How does a free event raise so much money?

Nearly all of the money was raised through business sponsorships. Major donors included Sunset TanPMT Performance Micro Tool, Richter Electric, MMPR, River Title Company and, of course, the Janesville Athletic Club.

A small amount was raised through the sale of pizza and soda.

"We wanted to keep food costs to a minimal so people could afford it," Schlenke said.

But the success of the event wasn't just about the money.

It was about families from across the economic spectrum being able to afford to have fun together, Schlenke said.

Love INC works with churches as a "gap" ministry to meet a variety of needs that might not be covered by traditional social service or charitable agencies. Its work reaches families and individuals who are struggling with a variety of issues.

Organizers wanted an event that everyone could afford, Schlenke stressed.

Planning will begin soon for year's event.