The American Red Cross, Mower County Chapter is preparing for its signature event.

The Red Cross will hold its ninth-annual 2012 Evening in Red fundraiser Saturday, March 24 at the Austin Country Club, 1202 28th St. NE. Social hour and a silent auction begin at 6 p.m.

The Evening in Red brings together supporters for dinner, entertainment, and silent and live auctions. All proceeds benefit disaster relief and readiness efforts in Mower County. Tickets are $65 and are available at the chapter office, 305 Fourth Ave. NW in Austin.

Some of the Mower County Chapter’s accomplishments in 2011 include: collection of 2,318 units of blood; immediate shelter, food and clothing for five local families following home fires; 1,069 individuals received life-saving training in CPR, first aid, swimming lessons and babysitters training; assisted 26 military families with service men and women deployed around the world; 579 individuals benefited from the Personal Care Shelf, a service unique to the Mower County Chapter; 266 volunteers donated 61,111 hours of time to help the Red Cross serve the people of Mower County.

Auctions items include many dinners, goods and services from the local community, across Minnesota and around the globe.

For more information, contact Elaine Hansen, executive director, at 507-437-4589.