CANTON — The Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council wants the public to celebrate life’s journey by giving back to the older population in need.

The council will conduct its annual gala on Aug. 25, which is its largest fundraiser it uses to give back to the community.

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center in Canton.

This year’s honoree will be Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock), and will feature a silent auction, food and entertainment.

Benny Carter, chairman of the council, said organizers hope to raise $30,000, which he said will go to their efforts to help needy seniors in Cherokee County.

“I think we’re making excellent progress,” Carter said. “We’ve had a good response on sponsorships and contributions.”

Just like last year, the council is sponsoring a Mayor’s Top Hat contest.

The mayors of Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, Waleska and Woodstock are in a friendly competition to see which city can raise the most money for the gala.

Top hats are placed at each city hall and residents are asked to donate money towards the cause.

The total will be counted the during the gala followed by the revealing of the winner.

Carter added the event organizers have sold close to 100 tickets and have about 75 left to sell.

Last year, Carter said over 100 people attended the gala and more than $20,000 was raised.

The Volunteer Aging Council raises money to support programs done by Cherokee County Senior Services such as Meals on Wheels and its Congregate Program.

It also raises money to provide boxed fans to seniors who can’t afford central air conditioning.

Janice Sloan, a committee member for the gala, said she is excited about the amount of money the gala can raise.

“We have been getting some great donations from local businesses who want to participate in silent auction,” she added.

Carter noted he’s also encouraged by the number of tickets purchased and the number of new people who’ve recently joined the ranks of the council ready to give back to the community.

Waleska Mayor Doris Jones, who is the council’s vice chair, added she hopes local residents will contribute towards the council as they work to make sure the county’s older residents are not forgotten.

“It’s just so meaningful and so rewarding,” she said, referring to the opportunity to give back to the community.