MERRILLVILLE – The Big Schmooze, a fundraising event for the United Way of Lake County and the United Way of Porter County, will be held Sept. 15 at Avalon Manor in Merrillville.

“This event has created a great way for us to launch our campaign, collaborate with and support our partners and network with the leaders in the state,” said Lou Martinez, executive director of the Lake Area United Way.

Tickets and sponsorships are available from $85 for a single to $750 for a table of 10. For more information, call (219) 226-0300.