Party it up for JCC educators

On Saturday, Nov. 21, The Roth Family JCC of Greater Orlando will host its second annual Party After Dark, benefiting its Richard S. Adler Early Childhood Learning Center.

The event, which begins at 8 p.m. at the JCC's Maitland location, will recognize the early childhood faculty members who have dedicated 15 or more years to creating an enriching learning environment for hundreds of children at the JCC.

"The JCC is so fortunate to have so many outstanding teachers, and parents who love their teachers," said Michelle Kutschinski, the event's chair. "We thought about perhaps honoring all of the teachers, but then quickly realized that we have teachers and administrators who have been with the J family for decades. At that point, it seemed obvious to honor those dedicated teachers and administrators who have touched so many throughout the years."

The event will feature a fun party atmosphere, with live music by the band, Crash Reality, delicious hors d'oeuvres by LongHorn Steakhouse, and beverages from the Orlando Brewing Company.

Party After Dark also marks the conclusion of the preschool's longstanding Basket Case Auction tradition, where each classroom prepares a magnificent themed gift basket, which is put up for silent auction. This year's silent auction bidding will take place online through the app called Handbid.

Kutschinski added that there are multiple sponsorship opportunities for the event, ranging from $250 to $2,500.

"We are also offering the opportunity to donate $36 to honor and recognize a specific teacher," Kutschinski said.

The funds raised at the event will be used toward new learning resources for the classrooms.

Tickets for the event are $40. To purchase tickets, send a tribute message to a teacher, or sponsor the event, visit http://www.orlandojcc.org/partyafterdark2015. For more information, call 407-645-0923.