Although the 2nd Annual Madison Charity Ball is a little different from last year’s event, its purpose remains intact - raising funds for charity.

The event, which takes place from 7 p.m. to midnight Saturday at the University Club of MSU, 3435 Forest Road in Lansing, will be garnering donations for Ele’s Place, 600 W. St. Joseph Highway in Lansing. Ele’s Place is a center for children and families coping with the loss of loved ones.

MSU Safe Place was the recipient of contributions from the charity ball last year. Safe Place is the only shelter for domestic violence on a college campus in the nation.

“We thought this was a worthwhile cause,” said Leslie Holoweiko, secretary for the James Madison College Student Senate, which is organizing the event. “The sheer number of children that this organization helps is impressive.

“It is just a valuable asset outlet for those children.”

While Holoweiko said the Senate believes both organizations are worthwhile, it chose a different charity to add some variety.

Funds raised by the charity ball are going toward the center’s Peer Support Group program, a feature that puts children into groups based on age groups to talk about their losses and participate in different activities.

“It’s our primary program, so it’s very important,” said Laurie Baumer, executive director for Ele’s Place. “It’s very encouraging they chose Ele’s Place for their contributions.”

The event, which also offers dinner, is $22 for students and $30 for the general public. Reduced prices are available for those who do not want dinner.

For more information or a free ride to the event, e-mail the Student senate at jmcss@msu.edu.