A Halloween-themed event set for next week will benefit veterans.

On Oct. 22, the public is invited to take part in a chili cook-off, a costume contest, and a haunted house all set at AmVets Post 61, 11541 North Shore Dr., Hillsboro.

“It’s all for the veterans,” said Carol Stafford, organizer of the event. She said all proceeds from the evening will go to the AmVets.

The evening will begin with a chili cook-off from 5-6 p.m. There is no entry fee, Stafford said, and those interested in participating need only to bring their chili-filled crock pots to the AmVets in time. If a person wants to enter their chili but can’t be present, that is alright, Stafford said. They only have to leave their chili with their name on the bottom of the crock pot.

There will be prizes for the winners, Stafford said.

There will also be prizes for the winners of a costume contest from 6-7 p.m. Stafford said the costume contest is for kids and adults.

From 7-10 p.m. will be the haunted house. Admission is $5 per family and $2 for an individual. Stafford said the haunted house, which will be located at the shelter house at the AmVets Park, will be scary, but haunted house staff will be mindful of children coming through and not scare them so much.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase at the event, Stafford said.

“Come out for an evening of fun and bring the whole family,” Stafford said.

For more information, or if you have a question, contact Stafford at 937-402-0413.

On a related matter, a Halloween costume party and dance is set for this Saturday and is to benefit a Hillsboro elementary youth basketball team, according to a flier.

The event on Oct. 15 is from 6-9 p.m. at 110 S. High St. in Hillsboro will include a dance contest, a cake walk, a limbo contest, musical chairs, and a best boy and best girl costume contest. Prizes include gift cards from Walmart and Kmart. The entry fee is a donation, and entry includes pizza and a drink.

Reach Angela Shepherd at 937-393-3456, ext. 1681, or on Twitter @wordyshepherd.