By Taylor J. Hale
Reporter

STEVENS POINT — The 17th annual Passport to Paradise event raised over $40,000 in net proceeds on Jan. 18 to help support Portage County YMCA and Boys & Girls Club programming. More than 300 guests came out to this year’s disco-themed celebration, hosted at SentryWorld in Stevens Point.

Two attendees show their disco costumes. (Contributed)

“Over the years people have really appreciated the collaborative spirit,” said Portage County Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Kevin Quevillon. “The more we can do for kids the better, that’s the sentiment the event has created. We all need to have an abundance mentality for kids.”

The idea for the two youth-focused organizations to work in tandem came about in 2003 when board directors developed the concept to show the area the importance of collaborating for the children.

“The idea was conceived and worked on by both organizations,” Quevillon said. “We made a committee made up of both groups. They pitched the idea to Sentry, and they agreed to be the presenting sponsor.”

Sentry’s gracious accommodations for the program have helped solidify it as a staple for ‘Stevens Point residents. The income generated through the events sales, raffles and sponsorships assist the organizations’ children curricula.

“All the proceeds go 100 percent into the youth programs,” explained Quevillon. “It is split 50-50 between the two organizations.”

The funding supports Boys & Girls Club art classes, technology recreation programs, and food services. Funds also support YMCA summer camps and their youth and government program. Themes for the event change each year to keep things fresh. An organic progression of goofy costumes has flowed throughout the years. Quevillon feels people like to have a warm and enjoyable retreat in the winter months.

“The idea was conceived from holding an event in the middle of winter where people could wear Hawaiian shirts and be around palm trees,” he said. “It gave people a chance to come into a tropical place, if you will, and support kids.”

The themes may change, but the message remains the same: support the youth. It is inspiring to see two similar organizations work together for the betterment of Portage County children.

To learn more about Passport for Paradise and to prepare for next year’s event visit www.spymca.org/passport-to-paradise.