Johnston Rotary BBQ Benefits Youth Homes of Mid-America

Friends, food and a good cause come together next week for the third annual .

While the Sept. 6 barbecue is a fun time for residents and organizers, it also aims to raise money for a special program each fall.

This year is no different, said Stephanie Simonson, one of the event organizers.

"When I was doing research I came across Youth Homes of Mid-America," Simonson said of the committee's work to find a worthy cause. "Based on interviews we did, we selected Youth Homes of Mid-America."

is a private, non-profit social service agency serving both young men and young women with off-campus treatment. It also offers a residential program for young men. All clients are Iowa children referred to Youth Homes of Mid-America by the Iowa Department of Human Services or the Iowa Juvenile Court.

The money raised from the barbecue will be used to purchase picnic tables and benches for use on the facility grounds.

"If people wanted to go outside they couldn't unless they were sitting on a blanket in the grass, there was no place to put things down," she said.

Any money raised beyond the cost of the benches and picnic tables will go to the general fund at Youth Homes for other initiatives.

"We really think this program is very special," Simonson said.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the barbecue.

Businesses or individuals have five sponsorship levels to chose from:

• Youth Homes Hero = $1,000.00
• Platinum = $750.00
• Gold = $500.00
• Silver = $250.00
• Bronze = $100.00

All sponsors receive tickets to the event and recognition showing sponsorship level on signs and banners at the event, as well as posters advertising the event around town.

Those interested in sponsorship should contact Bob Lashier - bob@laserresources.com or Jon Kallen - jkallen@eip-llc.com. 

The barbecue is from 5 to 7 p.m. at the , 6161 Northglenn Drive.

The dinner, provided by Johnston Hy-Vee, includes hamburgers and cheeseburgers for a $5 donation.

Tickets are available at the door or by contacting Lashier or Kallen.