The Journey School’s annual Blue Jean Ball fundraiser once again attracted the usual large crowd.

Journey School director Renee Alsobrook said nearly 300 people gathered at the Old National Armory Sunday Thursday to attend the country-themed event that goes to support the school. She said the night was a major success.

“Overall, the crowd seemed to have a lot of fun. Everybody commented on how the food was delicious, and they stayed until the end,” she said. “There was great entertainment, great music and it was a great night.”

Proceeds from the Blue Jean Ball help fund the Journey School, which is a nonprofit inclusive preschool designed to help children with special needs in the regular classroom.

The money is also used to fund essential equipment for the special needs children, such as keyboards.

Alsobrook said she is still in the process of counting the proceeds from the night, but it’s already clear the school has raised enough money to provide the necessities.

“We felt that a good amount of money was made to support the Journey School,” Alsobrook said.

During the event, there was a live and silent auction offering a number of items including deer hunting trips, jewelry, paintings and a Colorado condo.

“We felt like the items did well,” she said. “We had more live auction items, silent auction items, and a bigger selection of county store items.”

Not only did the support from the community members again surpassed expectations, the support from local organizations also beat early estimates.

A total of 26 sponsors signed on to support the event this year, giving the school it’s largest amount of sponsors ever.

“I have an appreciation and gratitude for the community, once again, to come out and support our fundraiser that also supports the Journey School,” Alsobrook said. “Without the Blue Jean Ball, the Journey School would not be possible. We feel really fortunate.”