The magic and fun of Mardi Gras will come to LARC Ranch on Sunday as the nonprofit organization’s annual fundraiser takes on a carnival atmosphere, with the proceeds benefiting programs and services for developmentally disabled adults, as well as LARC’s efforts to deal with an ongoing water crisis.

The Oct. 18 fundraiser, dubbed the “Carnival Extravaganza,” will feature food, games, music, dancing and fun for the whole family.

“The entire community is invited to our fundraiser,” said LARC Ranch Executive Director Kathy Sturkey. “We like to create an atmosphere that’s fun for the whole family. It’s also a great chance for everyone to see what LARC is all about: providing a safe environment for the more than 100 developmentally disabled adults who call LARC Ranch home.”

The extravaganza will be held at LARC Ranch, 29890 Bouquet Canyon Road, Saugus. Tickets for adults cost $125 each, and children’s tickets cost $50. A family package of $325 includes tickets for two adults and two children.

The luncheon event in picturesque Bouquet Canyon begins at 1 p.m. with carnival games along with great food and dessert from a variety of vendors. DJ Bino Bates will provide rock ‘n’ roll music that is sure to keep the dance floor moving.

All proceeds benefit the programs, services and facilities of LARC Ranch, which provides residential and day program services to developmentally disabled adults.

For the second year in a row the organization’s fundraising efforts are focused on addressing LARC’s ongoing water crisis. LARC’s wells have run dry due to the drought and other issues that have prevented water from being released from Bouquet Reservoir, which is supposed to replenish the wells.

LARC is working with multiple government agencies on a long-term solution that would connect LARC to the Santa Clarita municipal water supply, which would end LARC’s reliance on well water.

“Even without the water crisis, as a nonprofit organization we need to make the most of every dollar we raise,” Sturkey said. “The water situation has just made our fundraising tasks that much more challenging.”

She added that the fundraiser is not only an important event to support those efforts, but is also a means of thanking those in the community who support LARC. “We like to keep it fun, and we also believe strongly in showing our appreciation for everyone who supports LARC and its residents. The Carnival Extravaganza is a big part of that.”

Reservations and additional information are available by calling (661) 296-8636, ext. 219, or by visiting www.larcfoundation.org.

About LARC Ranch

LARC Ranch (Los Angeles Residential Community) was founded in 1959 by a group of parents who envisioned a better life for their developmentally disabled children. The 65-acre LARC Ranch provides homes, recreation and social activities, and day training activity centers for developmentally disabled adults. More information about LARC Ranch is available online at www.larcfoundation.org.