AYS plans annual fundraiser May 2

Associated Youth Services will hold a Stack the Decks Casino Night 2014 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, May 2, at the Overland Park Marriott.

The annual casino-night fundraiser supports the nonprofit’s five programs aimed at filling in the missing pieces for struggling youth.

Stack the Decks Casino Night will provide an evening of activities reminiscent of a night on the Las Vegas Strip: “blackjack, poker, craps, and roulette casino games are sure to keep guests trying their hand at lady luck,” event organizers said.

For those who want to bid on great prizes, silent and live auctions will give guests the chance to take home everything from a KU basketball signed by the team to a week’s getaway to Destin, Fla. Stack the Decks includes a DJ, specialty drinks, and hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets are $80 and can be obtained at AYS’ secure website – www.aysusa.org/stackthedecks, or by contacting AYS resource development specialist, Maggie McKinley at 913-831-2820, Ext 224.

“All proceeds from Stack the Decks Casino Night 2014 go to support the five AYS programs that continuously strive to stack the decks in favor of nearly 4,500 Kansas youth every year,” said Dennis Vanderpool, AYS chief executive officer.

Established in 1972, Associated Youth Services has worked diligently provide hope and a brighter future for at-risk youth in Kansas City, Kan., and throughout the state of Kansas. With its resume stemming back to 1912, as it was once part of the Mennonite Children’s Home in Kansas City, Kan., AYS has not only broadened its client base but has also increased its services:
• Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Prevention and Treatment Program
• AYS Academy GED Preparation
• Statewide Foster Care
• Home Ties Youth Residential Center
• Community Health Program