By GARRETT SAGER
Hays Post

Big Creek Crossing and the United Way of Ellis County are coming together from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday for a Night of Giving benefit.

“The Night of Giving is all about the community coming together for a fun evening of supporting the 15 partner agencies of the Ellis County United Way,” said Sherry Dryden, executive director of the Ellis County United Way.

The evening’s events will feature a wine tasting and appetizers, exclusive store discounts from participating retailers and a chance to win prizes.

“There will be a lot of chances to win in the giveaways,” Dryden said. “It’s a way to reward the community for giving back.”

The biggest giveaway will be a diamond ring valued at $2,850 from Riddle’s, she added.

With the purchase of a $20 ticket, participants will get to take part in all of the night’s activities. Participants will receive a wristband to wear to get discounts from participating stores. Dryden said receipts will be stamped and used to enter the giveaway contests by turning them in to United Way volunteers.

Tickets can be purchased at the United Way office, 205 E. Seventh, the Big Creek Crossing management office, and the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce. You can also contact a United Way board member directly, said Erica Berges, administrative assistant of Ellis County United Way. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Held in conjunction with the Night of Giving is an online auction, which starts Tuesday and runs through Nov.15.

Participants in the Night of Giving will also have the chance to participate in the online auction that night.

For more information on the Night of Giving and the online auction, visit the United Way of Ellis County website.