A number of people in the area support the work of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County, and now is the time of year the organization holds its annual gala and awards business partners.

The event is open to the public on Saturday, April 18, from 6 to 11 p.m. at The Clarion, 815 Route 37 West, in Toms River. Tickets are $125 per person and can be purchased by calling 732-505-3400 or via the web site bbbsoc.org.

The dinner and awards program starts at 7 p.m., preceded by a cocktail hour at 6.