More than 250 tickets were sold, at $100 per couple, for the event, support that the Center’s board Chairman Josh Inman said is a record for the annual fund-raiser.

“This is the highest turnout we’ve had in the five years we’ve been holding the ball,” he said. “We use the funds raised through this event to help us with operating expenses and to help provide safe and nurturing homes for children.”

But Inman said that while the center’s mission is serious, he hoped the crowd on hand at the ball would celebrate.

“This is designed to be a fun event,” he said. “We want people to come out, learn a little bit about the organization but most of all have a good time.”

And with everyone feeling a money pinch, Inman said he was overwhelmed by the turnout.

“I think these folks understand what the money goes to,” he said. “We take pride in the services we provide, and to have the support of the community is just wonderful. It’s times like these when their support is critical.

“We do the things for abused, neglected or delinquent children that you all may take for granted,” Inman added in his opening remarks. “We provide safe and nurturing homes, food and healthcare. These are things every child both needs and deserves.”

Center Director Robin Testerman said one of the highlights of the event, which organizers hope will bring in about $15,000 for the Center, is the silent auction.

More than 700 items were provided by local merchants for auction, support Testerman said showed how much the Center’s work is valued by the community.

The varied items up for bid included tickets for Duke basketball games, a chain saw, an iPad and home audio equipment.

“We served 860 children and families last year, and placed a record 100 in the shelter,” she said. “And small businesses are struggling. To have them donate to this cause is just incredible.”

She said the shelter was originally one facility but has been expanded to include a shelter each for Surry and Yadkin counties. The center also serves Stokes, Yadkin, Davie and Wilkes counties with services for youths from newborn to 18 years of age.

The Hip Pocket Band, an award-winning group from Greensboro, provided the musical entertainment for Saturday’s event, and the Master of Ceremonies was WXII’s Austin Caviness.

Attendee Steve Scott said a record number of children needing help served as the impetus for his attendance.

“There is a great need in Surry County for what this center provides,” he said. “With so many children in jeopardy and being taken from their families, there has to be an organization that provides support.”

Reach Keith Strange at kstrange@civitasmedia.com or 719-1929.