GO Pantry is preparing for its fourth annual Party for a Purpose fundraiser at Turfway Park Racing and Gaming on Aug. 22, bringing together corporate sponsors, community partners and donors to support programs that provide food to children facing food insecurity.
The event, presented by Amazon, Newman Tractor and the Sedler Family, helps the Northern Kentucky nonprofit begin a new school year of serving thousands of children, according to a community announcement. Local 12 anchor Sheila Gray will serve as emcee.
Rather than a traditional gala, Party for a Purpose emphasizes socializing and interactive activities. Attendees can bid on silent auction items, participate in party games, enter a bourbon raffle and take photos in a photo booth while
learning more about the organization's work.
Guests also will have access to a variety of food stations featuring menu items ranging from sliders, hot brown bites and fajitas to vegetable frittatas, chicken and waffles and churros.
“One of my favorite parts of the evening is seeing people genuinely enjoying themselves with friends, then leaving feeling more connected to our mission and knowing they made a real difference for local children,” said Beth McIntire, GO Pantry co-founder and executive director. “Behind every game, every auction item, and every conversation is a child who does not need to wonder where their next meal will come from because this community chose to show up and help.”
GO Pantry traces its origins to 2012, when a group of friends collected food for seven children at a local school. The organization now serves more than 1,300 children each week through more than 100 schools across six counties, according to the announcement.
Fundraiser supports growing need
As schools return for a new academic year, organization leaders say requests for assistance continue to increase, creating a need for additional donors and supporters.
Party for a Purpose has generated more than $100,000 in net revenue annually during the past three years, according to the announcement. Attendance topped 300 guests in 2025.
“One of our biggest responsibilities is to be a voice for the kids we serve,” said Laura Dumancic, GO Pantry co-founder and finance manager. “This event is an opportunity for the wider community to hear firsthand about GO Pantry’s mission to feed hungry kids – and hopefully, feel motivated to join us in helping the kids who need us most.”
How to attend
Individual tickets cost $125 and include admission, food, nonalcoholic beverages and two drink tickets that may be used for beer, wine or liquor.
Event registration, raffle tickets and silent auction bidding are available through givesmart.com. Silent auction bidding begins Aug. 17. Interested supporters also can register by texting GOPARTY26 to 76278.
People unable to attend in person may still participate in the auction and raffles. Winners do not need to be present at the event.
More information about GO Pantry and volunteer opportunities is available at gopantry.org.
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This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: GO Pantry event aims to raise support for hungry children
