NILES — With the aim to raise money for multiple projects that help local youth, the Niles Service League will be raising funds during an annual Paddles for a Cause Quarter Auction. 

The event will take place from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at the Bell Building, 305 N. Third St. The entry fee is a $5 donation, which covers the cost of one paddle. People are welcome to purchase more than one paddle, while they last.

Those who participate will be able to take part in a live auction by bidding on a variety of items donated by businesses and the local community. A raffle determines the winning paddle number. People are also welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages. Food will also be for sale and help to benefit the cause.

Maggie Gibson, a member of the Niles Service League who is also assisting in coordinating the event, said it is an event that brings the community together to support local youth by helping to provide funding to the league.

“It’s so much fun,” Gibson said. “It usually brings out a good 100 individuals, because there is such a good opportunity to win.”

Among the items auctioned off, Gibson said people can find, craft goods, gift cards, candy, wine, jewelry and a host of other items.

Gibson said she was proud to see so many members of the community stepping up to contribute to the auction.

“[It’s] fantastic,” Gibson said. “It always warms my heart to see there are other business owners and individuals who see the importance of giving back to their community.”

The Niles Service League has operated since 1934. Since their establishment, the group of volunteers has sought to improve the lives of youth in the Brandywine, Buchanan and Niles school districts. Funds raised through the organization support youth scholarships and help to buy winter coats and warm clothing, distributed to youth in need. During the Christmas season, the service organization adopts local families, among a number of other efforts.

Gibson encouraged people to attend the event and help to support this cause.

“The money people contribute is going directly to the Niles Service League to assist in situations like this,” Gibson said. “We could be delivering Meals on Wheels to your great-grandma, we could be behind the scenes giving coats, boots and scarves, even snow boots to a younger child in need. It makes a big difference knowing your $5 to buy the ticket for the donation goes a long way,”

Those interested in attending are welcome to purchase an entry ticket in advance. To do so, they can visit Edward Jones, 213 E. Main St. and purchase tickets from Becky Brown or OnStaff USA, 1221 S. 11th St. and ask for Gibson. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. Those who cannot attend are welcome to purchase an absentee ticket for $50 and they will be entered in every bid. To learn more about the Niles Service League, visit nilesserviceleague.org.