HANCOCK - Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly came into existence in France after World War II, so members of the local affiliate decided it would be appropriate to celebrate that at its next fundraising event on May 14.
Kathleen Harter, LBFE board member, said the French connection for the organization is strong.
"Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly started in (Paris) France in 1946 as a way to relieve loneliness and provide friendship to the elderly," she said.
That fact gave her an idea for the fundraiser, Harter said.
"I thought wouldn't it be nice to mix things up and go back to our roots," she said. "We're calling it An Evening in France Spring Fling 2011."
The event will be from 5 to 9 p.m. May 14 at the Shelden Grill in the Magnuson Hotel Franklin Square Inn, Harter said. It will be decorated in a French theme with a village market.
"It will be decorated to look like you stepped into France," she said.
Harter said the evening will begin with a social hour, the market - which will include locally produced items, such as food and hand-crafted items - and crepes will be made by Michael Lydon and Michael Lorence.
"It's a passion of theirs," she said of Lydon and Lorence. "Crepes are very popular in France."
The market will also have a table where donations to LBFE can be made, Harter said.
There will be live music at the event, Harter said. The dinner is from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., but exactly what will be available isn't certain yet.
"We're still working on the menu selections," she said.
During the event, Harter said there will be a silent and live auction. The live auction will feature a three-night stay at a Paris flat for two people. A tour of the city will be part of the package, also.
The event finishes up after the auctions, Harter said.
"The evening will close with more live music and a French-inspired pastry dessert buffet," she said.
Harter said tickets for the Spring Fling cost $40 per person, and LBFE officials are hoping the evening will bring in $20,000. That includes donations before and after the event.
"We will take reservations until seats are filled," she said.
For more information or to donate items for the auctions, call 482-6944.
Harter said LBFE representatives are looking forward to the Spring Fling.
"It's going to be a very fun, inspiring evening," she said.