(From the United Way of Hancock County)

United Way of Hancock County has aged 70 years — just like a great bottle of bourbon.

In honor of this legacy of bringing the community together, the United Way has planned a masquerade-themed fundraiser called Barrels & Bids: An Evening of Impact. This formal event will be held from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Findlay Country Club, featuring bourbon and wine tastings; silent and live auctions; and raffles. Keynote speaker for the evening is Hancock County’s own Jerry Blevins, former MLB player and co-founder of Field of Dreams Whiskey Co.

Tickets are $100 each or $800 for a table of eight. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available via the United Way’s website, www.uwhancock.org, or by calling the office at 419-423-1432.

“We haven’t had a formal event like this for years and we’re excited to put on a fun event to raise money not just for one cause, but for many across our community,” said United Way of Hancock County CEO Kelley McClurkin.

Barrels & Bids falls in the middle of United Way of Hancock County’s 70th anniversary year and its Campaign season, when the organization is working to raise $1.8 million to support critical community services. United Way funding supports 20 programs run by 15 local partner agencies dedicated to championing children’s issues, fighting hunger, promoting safety and health, supporting safe housing and fostering financial security.

All ticket sales and sponsorships from this event will go directly toward the United Way’s Campaign goal.

McClurkin noted that Barrels & Bids is largely being organized by local bourbon enthusiasts and will feature tastings and raffles for a number of highly coveted and sought-after bourbons. She added, however, that this is “not just for bourbon connoisseurs but for anyone looking for an elegant evening out this fall.”