Beaufort County Police Activities League is gearing up for the fifth-annual Dinner Dance, but this year’s event holds an even more special meaning, according to Al Powell, president of BCPAL.

The Dinner Dance, slated for Oct. 15 at the Washington Civic Center, comes on the heels of the groundbreaking ceremony for BCPAL’s Aviation, Technology and Fitness Center last week. BCPAL strives to educate youth on various career paths, while also fostering a healthy relationship between young people and law enforcement.

“It’s just kind of continuing on something positive,” Powell said of the upcoming Dinner Dance.

Meant to celebrate the work of law enforcement and first responders in Beaufort County, while also serving as the main fundraiser for BCPAL, Powell said the Dinner Dance is more relevant than ever in light of growing unrest over police conduct throughout the country.

He said with the unrest making its way to North Carolina recently, it is important to maintain a good relationship between the public and law enforcement.

“You don’t need to wait for something unfortunate to happen,” Powell said. “Beaufort County is not Charlotte, is not Ferguson, Missouri, and we have some very decent law enforcement and first responders.”

He said this also brings a deeper meaning to the four First Responder Humanitarian Awards presented at the event — two for law enforcement officers and two more for other first-responder personnel.

“I think that is adding a very, very important and much-needed touch,” he said.

Guests can expect to see a mix of city and county officials, faith-based organizations, first responders and other community members at the event. The Dinner Dance also features entertainment by The Main Event Band and catering by Keyzer’s.

Powell said he is also grateful to have Melissa Jarvis and Larry Lang coordinating the event for the third straight year. Tickets are $35 per person.

“The success of the event is going to be directly related to their hard work,” Powell said. “We just want everybody to (be able to) afford this event and have a good time.”

Powell said he is excited for this year’s event, and funds raised will go toward building the Aviation, Technology and Fitness Center.

Tickets for the BCPAL Dinner Dance are available at the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce, First Bank of Washington and Frank’s Pizza. Those interested can also call Al Powell at 252-923-9482. The Dinner Dance is scheduled for Oct. 15, 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Washington Civic Center.