Noblesville — A victims’ assistance group’s weekend fundraiser took in a record $91,880, nearly $29,000 more than last year’s event.

Prevail’s eighth annual Reds, Whites&Blues’ live and silent auctions raised $27,040; sponsorships and ticket sales brought in $42,000; and a 50/50 raffle made $1,840.

A final $21,000 came in response to a plea at the three-hour wine tasting and blues music in Carmel. Organizers asked the 450 guests to reach into their pockets to raise $10,000 more so Noblesville-based Prevail could receive a matching grant from Legacy Fund, an affiliate of the Central Indiana Community Foundation.

“We asked our guests to go over and above their sponsorships and what they bought in the live and silent auctions,” said Loretta Moore, Prevail’s executive director. “I know that the economy is tough, but with 450 people in a room, and they understand how important our mission is, and they understand the important work with the families. . . . When people understand what you do, to help change a community and the future, they’ll get behind you.”

Star reports