It’s time to decorate your masks, put on your beads and head out to the 9th Annual Mardi Gras Kickoff Fundraiser presented by Cary MacGregor Rotary Club and Life Experiences, Inc. The event is taking place Friday night, February 6, 2015 from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., at The Atrium in Cary located at 11000 Regency Parkway. Proceeds from this event will help Cary MacGregor Rotary Club and Life Experiences fund various philanthropic projects throughout the year.

“This Fundraiser brings community members together for a night of fun and networking, while at the same time raising money for great causes,” said Owen Robinson, Cary MacGregor Rotary Club President. “Our club continuously strives to give back through philanthropic efforts, and we look forward to a great evening of raising proceeds for our community.”

“Life Experiences is excited to be the non-profit partner again in 2015,” said Mary Madenspacher, Executive Director of Life Experiences. “The money raised will help people with special needs have a better quality of life by providing training and meaningful work. We can’t wait for another great night of fundraising at one of the most enjoyable events in the Triangle.”

Attendees will have the chance to sample a wide variety of food and libations from popular area establishments. There will also be a chance to win prizes including golf packages, food lovers’ prize packs, handmade jewelry, gift baskets, several week-long beach vacation packages, and a weekend golf excursion into North Carolina’s beautiful northern mountains.

The entertainment for the evening will be music by The Back of the Boat Band, a popular area and coastal band. Dress is business casual and festive attire is highly encouraged. A live auction will also take place during the 8 o’clock hour with emcee Ernie McAlister, former Cary mayor.

With the event’s increasing popularity over the years, event organizers are expecting around 500 attendees from all over the Triangle, as well as numerous individuals and small business that make this fundraiser possible.

Over the past 8 years, more than $1000,000 has been raised at this fundraiser to benefit the local community. This year’s event aims to raise more than $25,000 in proceeds for local causes, including Read and Feed, Camp Confidence, The Carying Place, the Boys and Girls Home at Lake Waccamaw, PolioPlus, Cary MacGregor Rotary’s annual scholarship award, and creation of employment opportunities for adults with disabilities.

There are an expected 50+ local area sponsors for this year’s fundraiser. Major sponsors include Spectrum Properties, Whiteboard Creations, S&A Cherokee and Waste Industries, to name a few.

Attendees will enjoy great food, fun and fellowship while raising money to give back to the community. The $25 early bird tickets can be purchased on the website or $30 at the door. We look forward to seeing you all there.