The Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau is inviting community members to join them Tuesday for "A Night With the Stars."

That's the theme for this year's dinner, which celebrates those who have volunteered for the organization to help serve their community.

This year's event will feature guest speakers, volunteer awards and performances from musical guest Blend, an a cappella doo-wop group from Southern Illinois.

The not-for-profit organization has served Cape Girardeau and surrounding areas since 1898. Its ability to help others relies largely on the help of volunteers, said Capt. Ronnie Amick.

"Our annual dinner, that's where we honor those who have given of their gifts and time to give back to their community," he said. "We wouldn't be able to do what we do without the volunteers' support. It's not just individual support, but the support of businesses and groups."

Volunteers fulfill a number of roles for the Salvation Army, Amick said.

They perform work in the thrift store or food pantry, ring bells as part of the Red Kettle Campaign, tutor children and lead life-skills classes.

Awards to be given Tuesday recognize efforts such as longevity in volunteering and exemplary work performed in the Christmas holiday season, Amick said. The organization has more than 300 volunteers and hopes to double that number within the next two years, he said.

The more volunteers the Salvation Army has serving, "the more we can put back into the community," Amick said.

Tuesday night's dinner doesn't just thank volunteers for the work they have done. It also takes time to recognize the fruits of their labor.

"It's also a night where we let the community know the number of people we helped in the last year," Amick said.

Through that unveiling, volunteers can really understand how their help improved the lives of families and individuals, he said.

Last year's dinner drew a crowd of about 140 people, and Amick said the Salvation Army hopes to see a similar turnout. Those who wish to attend may purchase tickets for $10 at the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau, 701 Good Hope St.

Amick said although some tickets will be available at the door Tuesday, people are encouraged to buy tickets in advance to give organizers an accurate count for food preparation.

The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Salvation Army.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

701 Good Hope St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.