27th annual Ebony and Ivory ball

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - It was an evening of dancing and music at the 27th Annual Ebony and Ivory Charity Ball.  The event raises money for the Hanna Community Center.

"It's very important that we raise money so we can fully fund many programs which are designed to deliver a variety of services to the Greater Lafayette Community," said Willie Reed, Purdue Dean of Veterinary Medicine.

Hanna Community Center Executive Director Duwayne Moffitt said the fundraiser helps all programs.

"We are a non-profit that supports the community and we've been here 27 years.  So, we are excited to be here," said Moffitt.

Purdue students for Hanna help sponsor the event.  Vice President Jordan Heath says the Hanna Center does many things for the community.

"This allows the community and the Purdue staff, even though they may not be from the Lafayette and West Lafayette area to be exposed to everything that they do here," said Jordan Heath.

Reed and Moffit said the fundraiser is especially important during these tough economic times.

"It's just wonderful that the community can come together and everyone can have a lot of fun.  At the same time we can raise money for our many projects to help our community, especially with the economic downturn.  There is so much need," said Willie Reed.

"This event is very important to the Hanna Center and the community. We are very pleased that the Purdue students for Hanna once again sponsored this event and also the wonderful Purdue Union.  This is very exciting," said Moffitt.