The non-profit organization tasked with marketing and promoting the largest paved loop trail in the country will hold its annual banquet Saturday.

Raccoon River Valley Trail Association board member Bob Wilson says it’s always a fun evening for a good cause.

“All the money that this group raises goes toward the Raccoon River Valley Trail.  Promoting it, making sure we get visitors, some of the funds go toward paving crossings.  You know, it’s just a great community asset not only for cycling but other health and wellness activities (too).”

The event takes place Saturday at the Marriott Hotel in West Des Moines starting with a social gathering at 4:45pm.  A sit down dinner will begin at 5:30 followed by a program with keynote speaker Terry Rich from the Iowa Lottery and a live auction.

Tickets are $50 per plate or $500 for a table of eight. A link to the registration page can be found HERE.

Wilson says the Perry Chamber is putting together a basket for the auction.  Anyone who would like to donate an item is encouraged to contact Wilson at the Chamber.