Junior Women's League Presents 9th Annual Big Night Out

Smithfield, N.C. - The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield (JWL) will host its 9th Annual Big Night Out - “An Evening of Boots and Bow Ties” at The Barn at Broadslab in Benson on Friday, May 17 at 7 p.m. The League is raising money to support Johnston County initiatives such as their Community Impact Grants to local nonprofits, college scholarships, JWL Blessing Boxes at area fire stations, and much more. 

“The Big Night Out Committee is working hard to plan a memorable evening with a Reverse Raffle, featuring a more casual atmosphere than our traditional gala. Our hopes are to gather everyone together for a night of celebration that creates a measurable impact on our community,” states Dana Peterson, Big Night Out Committee Co-Chair. 

Each $100 Raffle ticket will include entry into the $10,000 cash drawing, a meal for two featuring local southern fare, dancing, and live music by The Main Event Band. Try your hand at the Bling Ring game for a chance to win a $3,000 Evans Jewelers’ diamond ring, or enjoy the premier Silent Auction offering sporting event tickets, jewelry, and much more! Tickets are on sale now at www.jwlsmithfield.com/bno or from any JWL member. 

Laura Hill, Big Night Out Committee Co-Chair adds, “We wanted to showcase Johnston County and its roots this year. Since food insecurity is one of our top League initiatives, it made sense to literally bring to the table the staples that Johnston County agriculture provides.” 

An astounding number of people living in Johnston County are food insecure and do not have a reliable daily food source. Recognizing this growing concern, JWL remains steadfast in its fight to end hunger through our Blessing Box program - small pantries stocked with free food and hygiene items located at county fire stations. This resource is available for community residents, businesses, and civic organizations to fill as often as they are able to help JWL continue to care for those in need. 

JWL is proud to have awarded over $155,000 in Community Impact Grants to many Johnston County nonprofits. Grants are accepted on a rolling application basis allowing the League to appropriate monies in a more flexible manner and increase the number of organizations who receive grant funding.

Since 2015, JWL has provided valuable resources and assistance for the women and children of Johnston County. Your support provides crucial funding that directly pours into committed community programs offering vital help for those in need. Additional support can also be provided by serving as a sponsor for this event. For more information about Big Night Out, or to inquire about tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.jwlsmithfield.com. Together, we can continue to support our League's work in the community and honor its mission. 

About the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield: 

The Junior Women's League of Smithfield (JWL) is a non-profit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action of trained volunteers. Our organization was founded in Smithfield, but is dedicated to the betterment of all communities within Johnston County. Since the League’s establishment, JWL has awarded over $155,000 in Community Impact Grants to Johnston County nonprofit organizations and Student Scholarships and completed more than 13,600 hours of community service.