A group from Dowagiac that worked together in the past on various fundraisers was looking for an organization that helped Cass County residents.

“All of us have either had cancer or a family member who has. We know the need is great here and we want to help,” says Darlene Powell. “When my daughter-in-law was diagnosed last year we were told to call Cass County Cancer Service. This is how we decided to work with them and a reverse raffle was planned” for Oct. 15 at Dowagiac Conservation Club, 54551 M-51 North.

The raffle takes place at 7 p.m. after a dinner served at 6.

“With the support of businesses like Lyons Industries we know it will be a successful night,” said Powell, formerly of Dowagiac Area Federal Credit Union.

“Many of the local businesses countywide have been making donations, even though the economy has hurt their businesses as well. We appreciate all of their support and want them to know they are helping their community.”

Besides buying a pair of tickets Wednesday, President Lance Lyons donated a whirlpool for the silent auction.

Tickets cost $35 each. A maximum of 300 will be sold. The top three cash prizes are $300, $500 and $2,000, plus there will be other prizes throughout the evening, which includes dinner and drinks along with the chance to be a winner.

All proceed help Cass County Cancer Service to continue helping county residents facing the challenges cancer causes.

“The reason we chose to work with this organization is that they are all volunteers and all the money stays here in Cass County,” Powell said. “The need is great here in our area and this is one way we can help our family, friends and neighbors.”

If you need a ticket or want to make a donation or both, like Lance and Lyons Industries, call Powell at (269) 782-8490.

Cancer Service Secretary Maxine Ownby said said demands on the organization have grown from 16 families in 2009 to 40 in 2010, with two dozen calls logged last month alone.