Mayor's Charity Ball
Purpose

Contributing money to Kids on the Block is the reason the Mayor’s Charity Ball exists.  Here is the fundraising history of the event.  All money raised at the Mayor’s Charity Ball is donated to Kids on the Block. 

The Kids on the Block program has been a valuable resource to our community over the past 20 years, and the Mayor’s Charity Ball is an essential partner in providing funds to sustain this program.  Children have a safe and fun place to be after school, parents can work without worrying for their safety, educators see improved grades and behavior, and employers benefit by having their employees secure that their children are safe.   The program includes Power Hour (an academic homework support program) and recreational activities for kids in grades 1-5. 

Kids on the Block began in 1989 and now serves all six School District 40 elementary sites.  In 2001, Power Hour was added and funded by a 3-year federal grant.   Implementing this grant allowed the program to more than double, and there are currently over 550 children involved in the KOB program.  This grant has now expired and increased efforts are being made to maintain needed funding.

The  need is great.  In the past 20 years, contributors like yourself have provided over $1,500,000 for these kids; yet this is only a portion of the true costs associated with staffing and managing this comprehensive program.  The KOB annual budget is over $480,000.  Money raised through the Mayor’s Ball covers only 1/3 of the annual budget.

The success of the Mayor’s Charity Ball is due solely to the generosity of those who continue to support the event by contributing cash sponsorships, food, beverages, auction items, and in-kind sponsorships.  In addition, hundreds of community volunteers work year-round to plan and carry out the event.