The Make-A-Wish Maine’s annual LA Summer Block Party, presented by Uncle Andy’s Digest, was held Aug. 14 in Auburn.

The event raised a record-setting $112,000, and counting. This was not only a record for the block party, but also represents the single largest external fundraising event in Make-A-Wish Maine’s 29-year history, according to a news release from the organization.

“We are completely blown away by what the summer block party is able to do year over year. With over $475,000 raised in seven years, we are still in awe each year to see the success of this event. We are so grateful for the dedicated volunteers who coordinate this event and give so many hours of their own time to it. They have changed the lives of dozens of wish families who are directly impacted by their generosity,” said Kate Vickery, president & CEO of Make-A-Wish Maine.

Event founder and organizer Jimbo Marston said “It’s remarkable to see so many area businesses step up and support what has become a great community event. Our communities are very generous, and for them to stand with us for such a great organization like Make-A-Wish is incredible to see. The ripple effect of a Wish inspires us to keep pushing the envelope and bust through the ceiling each year.”

The annual event featured live music, auction items, and a Kids Zone featuring a 95-foot inflatable obstacle course.

The average cash cost of a wish is $7,000, and Make-A-Wish Maine has more than 115 children in some stage of the wish process.

“Throughout the past 12 months, we have granted 67 wishes,” Vickery said. “Our wish kids have wished for puppies, playsets, swimming pools and shopping sprees and we are dedicated to granting the wish of every eligible child. For us, events like the summer block party are what allow us to continue to deliver our mission to kids battling critical illnesses. This partnership is changing the lives of the families we work with.”