When RAISE28 holds its fundraising banquet, guests can expect an inspiring and memorable experience, said Mark Unger, executive director.

"It will be an impactful evening that will include local youth, stories of life change, a time of worship and an inspiring message from our keynote speaker," he remarked.

The banquet will be held at Kraybill Mennonite School, 598 Kraybill Church Road, Mount Joy, on Thursday, Nov. 19, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

"This year we will have a more casual experience, as dinner will be served at stations, buffet style," Unger said. "RAISE28 youth will assist elderly attendees by getting their dinner for them. The dinner will be available between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m."

Catered by 2 P's in a Pot, the banquet will feature charcuterie stations with cheeses, breads, dips and butters; salad; mini ham balls; Tuscan chicken; blistered green beans; smashed potatoes; noodles; and homemade alfredo sauce with spinach. Desserts will include brownies, a peanut butter dessert, lemon raspberry parfait and a fall pumpkin or apple dessert. A variety of drinks, including fruited water, iced tea, coffee and apple cider spritzer, will also be served.

Unger noted that there are no preassigned tables but that upon arrival tables may be reserved. People may sit at any table that is not reserved.

The heart of the evening will be the keynote speech by Walt Mueller, founder and president of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding (CPYU).

"Our theme for this year is 'Truth in the Trenches,' which reminds us that no matter the inconsistencies we encounter while living in this world, we can depend on the truth of God's word," Unger said. "Walt has 35 years of experience of serving schools, churches and nonprofit organizations. He is also recognized as an authority on youth culture and family issues."

The banquet is the primary annual fundraiser for RAISE28, and Unger emphasized his appreciation for the event's sponsors and the community.

"The proceeds will go to our youth programs as we focus our efforts to fulfill our mission, to reach local youth with the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ. We provide a safe place for kids in kindergarten through 12th grade to go (to) after school," Unger said, noting that different age groups attend on different days of the week. "We play games, help with homework, connect families with resources and teach kids, through the Bible, about God and His love for us."

The deadline to register for the banquet is Friday, Nov. 13. To register, visit https://raise28.breezechms.com/form/8099c2.