Block party to benefit Yuma charities

Dan Mikles is new to Yuma, and he wants to show he's serious about being a member of the community.

On Saturday , Mikles' business, Franklin FTS Automotive Center, will host a charity block party to benefit several local nonprofits.

The carnival-style event will feature a racecar simulator, classic cars to admire, jumping castles and clowns for the kids, food, a live broadcast with STAR 100.9, and raffles of tools, shocks, an iPad and more. Mikles hopes to raise at least $10,000 for Crossroads Mission, Habitat for Humanity, Amberly's Place, Humane Society of Yuma, Yuma Community Food Bank, the Boy Scouts and Greater Foothills Helping Hands.

Mikles, who bought the longtime business in June, comes to Yuma from Tucson. He finds this area tight-knit, and he wants to give back to his new home.

“In a small town like this, people appreciate that,” he said.

Franklin FTS Automotive Center is usually open for business on Saturdays, but it won't be making any profits during the block party. All proceeds from the party will go right back to the Yuma-centric organizations.

The fun and games run 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Franklin FTS Automotive Center (formerly Franklin Tire and Suspension), 1845 S. Arizona Ave.

Hillary Davis can be reached at hdavis@yumasun.com or 539-6857. Find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/YSHillaryDavis or on Twitter at @YSHillaryDavis.