Tuscaloosa Dating Game To Match Local Singles For A Good Cause

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Tuscaloosa-area singles will get a chance to ditch the dating apps and try their luck in front of a live audience next month, all while raising money for a local cause.

The Young Leaders Society of United Way of West Alabama will host its inaugural YLS Dating Game on Thursday, Oct. 8, from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Cypress Inn Pavilion.

Organizers said the interactive fundraiser will put a modern, local spin on the classic television game show, with four Tuscaloosa-area bachelors and bachelorettes taking center stage.

The featured singles are Matt Abney of the University of Alabama, Harris Busby of Indian Hills Country Club, Darlene Atkins of Tuscaloosa City Schools and Abbye Blocker of McLendon Veterinary Clinic.

During the event, contestants will answer questions and compete for the chance to win a lunch date with one of the featured singles — without seeing the person on the other side until a final selection is made.

Audience members will also get in on the action by using red and green flags to react to contestants and potential matches in real time.

"The YLS Dating Game is unlike anything YLS has done before, and that is what makes it so exciting," Young Leaders Society President Briana Houston said. "We wanted to create something that feels like a genuinely fun night out while still giving people an opportunity to support an important need in our community."

The event will also feature food and drinks, a silent auction, photo opportunities and other interactive activities.

Organizers say guests will be given a way to advertise their relationship status without having to ask. Attendees can choose a green cup if they are single, yellow if "it's complicated" or red if they are taken.

Winning contestants will receive a gift certificate for a lunch date with their match.

"We want people to know this is not a marriage proposal — it's just lunch," Houston said. "The whole idea is to have fun, make a connection, network and maybe give someone the opportunity to meet a new friend they would have never crossed paths with otherwise."

Proceeds from the event will benefit the United Way of West Alabama Emergency Fund, which is used to respond to urgent and unexpected needs facing individuals, families and communities across West Alabama.

"YLS has always looked for creative ways to bring people together while making a difference," United Way of West Alabama President and CEO Jackie Wuska Wear said. "The Dating Game is a great example of that. It gives our community something new and entertaining to experience while raising resources that allow United Way to be there when our neighbors need help most."

In addition to ticket sales, organizers are seeking corporate sponsors, silent auction donations and community partners for the event.

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