The McKenzie Autumn Benefit Committee is inviting the community to step back into the 1950s for an evening of mystery, fun, and support for local healthcare at its 2026 Autumn Benefit, “A Dance with Death: A 1950s Sock Hop Gone Sour,” on Saturday, October 24, at Mi-Dahs Well Banquet Hall in Deckerville.
Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., with dinner beginning at 6:00 p.m. Guests will become part of an interactive murder mystery set at a 1950s sock hop. The evening will also include a silent auction, wine pull, 50/50 drawing, and opportunities to support McKenzie and the future of local healthcare.
Tickets are $125 per person and may be purchased at McKenzieHealth.org/Autumn-Benefit.
“This event is always a wonderful opportunity to bring people together, but at the heart of it is something much bigger,” said Steve Barnett, DHA, CRNA, FACHE, President/CEO of McKenzie Health System. “Nearly every family in our community will rely on local healthcare at some point. The support we receive today helps make sure exceptional care remains close to home for the people who will need us tomorrow.”
This year’s Autumn Benefit will also serve as the culmination of the McKenzie Foundation’s 2026 Digital Campaign, taking place October 1–24. With a goal of raising $50,000, the campaign is designed to give everyone an opportunity to support local healthcare, regardless of the size of their gift.
Adding momentum to this year’s campaign, an anonymous donor has committed a $20,000 Challenge Match Gift, giving community members an opportunity to double the impact of their support. As donations come in throughout the campaign, the match will help turn community generosity into even greater support for McKenzie and the future of local healthcare.
Built around the theme “Building Together. One Story at a Time.” and the message “For every story yet to come,” the Digital Campaign will share stories from patients, caregivers, donors, and community members while highlighting the many ways McKenzie touches the lives of those it serves.
Throughout the campaign, community members can give online, help unlock the $20,000 Challenge Match, follow progress toward the $50,000 goal, and spread the word by sharing campaign stories with family and friends.
“The Digital Campaign gives everyone a way to be part of this effort,” Barnett added. “Every gift, every story shared, and every person who helps us reach someone new adds to what we are building together.”
The campaign will conclude on October 24 with the Autumn Benefit, bringing supporters together to celebrate the community behind McKenzie and the future of local healthcare. For Autumn Benefit tickets, visit www.McKenzieHealth.org/Autumn-Benefit. To learn more about the Digital Campaign, or to make a gift, visit OurFutureToBuild.org or call the McKenzie Foundation at 810-648-6127