Wish Upon a Teen to Unveil Special Bracelet at 'Wear the Cause' Event

Teens in need will be the center of a fundraiser scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Townsend Hotel.

The Bloomfield Hills-based non-profit, Wish Upon a Teen, will be hosting their end-of-the-year fundraiser, "Wear the Cause," from 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, as they seek to help area teens with dehibiliating medical issues.

The party will be hosted by Birmingham businesswoman Denise Ilitch — owner of Denise Ilitch Designs and publisher of the Birmingham-based Ambassador Magazine — alongside Jimmy King, the former University of Michigan and NBA star.

"I am very excited to be involved with this wonderful non-profit," King, one of the group's newly-named celebrities ambassadors, said. "I believe in the work they are doing here in the metro area and nationwide."

Established in May 2011, Wish Upon a Teen seeks to help teenagers with develomental or medical conditions through interactive social and educational events. The group splits its work among teens in Los Angeles and Detroit, serving two primary groups of teens: those with autism and those living with serious medical conditions, like cancer.

"Adolescence is a time when any young person is already having a difficult time navigating the world around them," a press release from the non-profit reads. "Trying to find themselves, their footing and where they belong. Adding in a life-threatening disease or illness, mental and emotional issues or special needs often compounds the problems even further."

During Tuesday's party, Wish Upon a Teen will also reveal their signature bracelet. Proceeds from the sale of the bracelet will go directly back to Wish Upon a Teen.

"We are thrilled to be launching our new signature bracelet at our premiere holiday fundrauser," said Michelle Soto, president of Wish Upon a Teen. "Our unique bracelets were specially made by hand."

The bracelet, which features a hand-woven band and three silver stars, is currently for sale for $45.

Tickets for the Tuesday event are $50 for general admission and $85 for VIP admission. All guests will be treated to a signature cocktail and hors d'oeuvres, as well as performances from DJ Jason George and 17-year-old Farmington Hills singer/songwriter Callaghan Smerek.

All VIP guests will also receive a swag bag that includes one of the Wish Upon a Teen bracelets.

"These bracelets have come just in time for the holidays," King added. "They are a great stocking stuffer with an even better cause behind them."

If you're going to Wear the Cause, make sure you bring along any old iPod or trumpets you have in the closet. Wish Upon a Teen will be collecting musical instruments and media devices at the event as well.