BENEFIT : March of Dimes Fund-Raiser Not Necessarily a Single Event

This year’s March of Dimes fund-raiser will be a black-tie affair that includes the annual Grand Gala Bid for Bachelors, plus entertainment, casino games and gourmet dining.

The lineup was designed to appeal to couples as well as to the single women attracted to the bachelor auction that last year brought in $122,000, said spokeswoman Stacey K. Griffin.

Organizers this year hope to raise $100,000. They have set the lower goal because of the recession, which has many charities scaling back their expectations, Griffin said.

The fund-raiser, scheduled for Saturday in Irvine, benefits the March of Dimes Campaign for Healthier Babies to reduce the incidence of birth defects and low-birth-weight babies. It funds research, education and community service programs throughout Orange County.

The gala is the organization’s sixth annual event in which guests bid on bachelors and the trips and vacations they have put together. Some of the bachelors have dreamed up themes for their packages, including a trip to France for the Winter Olympics and a weeklong stay in Australia. Other trips will take the bidder and bachelor on a Mardi Gras holiday in New Orleans, a Caribbean cruise, a ski trip to Aspen or a weekend in Palm Springs.

Altogether, 16 bachelors have been invited to take part in the auction. They have either paid for the trips themselves or had them donated, Griffin said.

There will also be a silent auction in which bidders try for other packages, including a Temecula wine-tasting weekend and a “pamper yourself” weekend. Guests will be entertained throughout the evening with musicians and a comedy show as well as games of blackjack, craps and roulette in the casino.

Guests will also be invited to sample specialty dishes from 15 restaurants, including Birraporetti’s, Tutto Mare and Bistango. There will be pastas, salads, appetizers, desserts and cappuccino at several food stations.

What: Annual March of Dimes fund-raiser and Grand Gala Bid for Bachelors.

When: Saturday, Oct. 19, at 7 p.m.

Where: Parker Hannifin Business Complex, 18321 Jamboree Road, Irvine.

Whereabouts: Exit the San Diego (405) Freeway at Jamboree Road, go south to Michelson Drive.

Wherewithal: Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door.

Where to Call: (714) 631-8700.