Festivus Finds Fun Ways to Raise Money for a Good Cause

Part fundraiser, part art show and all party, the third annual Festivus will be a night of food, raffles, music, cocktails and silent auctions to benefit The Gathering Place from 7:30-10:30 p.m. April 16.

Angie Hofelich, owner of VANITYLAB, has been hosting a benefit event for local nonprofits since 2009. This year, she is expanding the party into two parts - one at VANITYLAB and one at The Gathering Place.

“Last year we got in trouble because we had too many people,” Hofelich said. “We’ll split it up this year so that we can have a more comfortable event.” Last year’s Festivus drew more than 400 people to the salon at 24945 Detroit Rd.

VANITYLAB will also be celebrating its third anniversary during the party.

"It's a chance to say, 'Hey, we made it through some really tough times,'" Hofelich said.

In the past, Festivus has been a fundraiser for Wigs for Kids and the Northeast Ohio SPCA. This year, proceeds will go to cancer support programs at The Gathering Place.

Admission to the party is $5 and includes five raffle tickets and a drink ticket. The grand prize drawing is for a year of beauty worth $1,000. There will be more chances to win at the Festivus pole, which will be loaded with half-price gift cards, and at the silent auctions. Those looking to buy rather than play will have a chance to browse tables with jewelry, clothing, greeting cards and more from 40 local artists and vendors.

For more information on the party, call VANITYLAB at 440-835-4490.