“Let’s Glow Crazy” will feature live music by Party McFly on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club.

Dust off the neon, tease the hair, and grab your leg warmers as “Let’s Glow Crazy” is coming to town! On Saturday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m., the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club will host this 80s-themed fundraiser, combining music, food, raffles, costume contests, and community spirit–all for a critical cause.

The event benefits Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, specifically The Friendly Kitchen and the Emergency Food Pantry, two programs that provide meals, groceries, and support to local residents struggling with food insecurity. It’s an evening where fun meets purpose, giving residents a chance to enjoy themselves while making a real difference in their community.

“This event is a celebration of community and compassion,” said organizer Lorie Mets. “The Friendly Kitchen and the Emergency Food Pantry serve people from all walks of life, and by coming together to have fun, we’re helping our neighbors in a meaningful way.”

“Let’s Glow Crazy” promises a high-energy, interactive experience. Live music by Party McFly will keep the dance floor packed, spinning all the classic hits from the 1980s. Guests can enjoy delicious food throughout the evening, ensuring no one dances on an empty stomach.

Adding to the excitement, attendees can participate in basket raffles featuring items generously donated by local businesses and community members. The evening also features prizes for the best 80s costume, encouraging everyone to embrace the colorful, playful spirit of the decade. From leg warmers and neon tights to teased hair and bold makeup, the costume contest is a fun way to engage attendees while highlighting the event’s festive theme.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, with advance tickets available at Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, 319 Washington Ave., Dunkirk, or held for pickup at the door by calling Lorie Mets at 716-785-7820 or Bridget Majka at 716-366-1787.

Food insecurity is a growing issue across Chautauqua County. Many households — including seniors on fixed incomes, working families, and individuals experiencing unexpected hardships — struggle to access enough nutritious food to meet daily needs. Programs like The Friendly Kitchen and the Emergency Food Pantry are lifelines for these residents, providing meals, groceries, and dignity to those in need.

However, nonprofit organizations face significant challenges in meeting growing demand. Rising food prices, increased costs for transportation and operations, and limited funding sources mean that events like “Let’s Glow Crazy” are essential to keep these programs running. Fundraisers allow nonprofits to purchase food, cover operational costs, and expand services to reach more individuals and families facing hunger.

“Many people don’t realize that a hot meal or a bag of groceries can be a lifeline for someone struggling,” said Mets. “Every ticket, raffle entry, and donation helps provide those critical resources and supports families in our community.”

The Friendly Kitchen provides hot meals in a welcoming and supportive environment. Guests can gather for a nutritious meal and a sense of community, which is particularly important for seniors and those living alone. Meanwhile, the Emergency Food Pantry ensures that families and individuals have access to groceries that can last through the week, helping reduce financial stress and food insecurity.

Together, these programs make a tangible difference. In a single week, the Friendly Kitchen may serve hundreds of meals, and the Emergency Food Pantry can distribute enough groceries to feed dozens of families. But with demand increasing, every dollar raised at fundraisers like “Let’s Glow Crazy” directly impacts how many meals and resources these programs can provide.

Beyond tickets and attendance, “Let’s Glow Crazy” encourages broader community involvement. Local businesses, organizations, and volunteers have contributed raffle prizes, sponsorships, and time to help make the evening a success. By supporting the event, the community not only enjoys an entertaining evening but also invests in the well-being of its neighbors.

“This is a chance for the community to come together, have fun, and make a meaningful difference,” Mets said. “It’s about more than dancing and costumes–though those are fun–it’s about ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry.”