Interfaith Hospitality Network @ Alpha House — one of my very favorite organizations, which offers shelter to homeless families while assisting them in settling into homes of their own — is hosting its annual fundraiser, Gimme Shelter, on Saturday, Sept. 22. Despite the seriousness of the mission, the event itself is quite the party, and you should go!

A silent auction will feature a wide variety of fabulous items for any budget: vacations, tickets to sporting events and other entertainment venues, gift certificates for local restaurants, and many different types of services. (I've donated a gift certificate offering an opportunity to join me for a Frugal Floozie Friday adventure.  Let's go eat!) A wine pull will give you a chance for some lovely new varieties to try.

There will be a strolling dinner, with complementary beer and wine; musical accompaniment will be provided by local pianist Brandy Sinco. And, as the invitation itself states, "Don't fret, there will be coverage of the UM game that evening," so you can even support this great cause while not missing out on the Notre Dame match-up.

One treasured tradition at Gimme Shelter has been the paella that Gabriel Nunez and his wife, Eloisa Guerrero, donate to the dinner. Not only is it a delicious contribution to the meal; according to Helen Starman, director of development at Alpha House, it "is just spectacular — it is so big that he has to cook it in his garage over a special gas flame." The couple also donates an auction item: coming to your home to cook a paella dinner for 12 guests, which is supplemented with Spanish wine and with a dessert from a different donor.

Ann Arbor Tailgates, the charity cookbook Alpha House published last year, will also be for sale at Gimme Shelter. It costs only $20, and $15 of that is a charitable donation which may be tax deductible.

Tickets to this exceptional event cost $55 in advance or $60 at the door; a table of 10 is available for $500, or you can offer support as an Honorary Chair for $125.