(CHICAGO) —On Thursday, December 12, the National Association of Black Journalists Chicago Chapter (NABJCC) will continue a holiday tradition that for the last 12 years has ensured needy children have toys, and needy students receive scholarships.

The nonprofit organization will host the “Red Hot Holiday Party,” its 12 ^th Annual Toy Drive and Scholarship Fundraiser, at Per.so.na, 408 S. Wells St., December 12 ^th from 5:30-11 p.m.

The annual event raises hundreds of dollars in toys and scholarship donations to benefit needy and disabled children in foster care and group homes served by Chicago community organizations, as well as deserving high school and college students who rely on NABJ grants.

The public is invited to bring a new unwrapped toy donation.

Admission to the event is $30 in advance, or $35 at the door. Early bird tickets may be purchased at: https://conta.cc/36TPzpj

The evening festivities include music, dancing, food and fun.

We invite Chicagoans to come mix and mingle with their favorite TV, radio, newspaper and digital journalists at this annual event that has become a must-attend for many elected officials, community and civic leaders, and other community stakeholders.

In 2018, NABJCC awarded more than $3,000 in college scholarships. Thousands more have been awarded in the last decade to eligible students studying broadcast, print and online journalism; photography and graphic design; and integrated media communications.

NABJCC remains committed to: sensitizing media to the importance of fairness and diversity in newsrooms; working with colleges and high schools to identify and encourage black students to become journalists; expanding diversity in newsroom management; and promoting balanced coverage of the black community and society at large.