On Thursday, October 8, 2026, the Young Leaders Society (YLS) of United Way of West Alabama will turn the Cypress Inn Pavilion at 601 Rice Mine Rd N in Tuscaloosa into a lively dating‑game arena. The event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and is designed as a fun, low‑pressure alternative to endless app swiping.
Local singles take the stage
Four Tuscaloosa‑area singles will compete for a lunch date with one of the featured partners. The bachelors are Matt Abney, a University of Alabama student, and Harris Busby of Indian Hills Country Club. The bachelorettes are Darlene Atkins, a teacher in the Tuscaloosa County School System, and Abbye Blocker from McLendon Veterinary Clinic.
“The YLS Dating Game is unlike anything YLS has done before, and that is what makes it so exciting,” said Briana Houston, President of the Young Leaders Society. “We wanted to create something that feels like a genuinely fun night out while still giving people an opportunity to support an important need in our community.”
How the game works
Contestants will answer questions and showcase their personalities without seeing their potential match until the final selection. Audience members will influence the action by holding up red or green flags to react in real time. Guests can also signal their relationship status with colored cups—green for single, yellow for “it’s complicated,” and red for taken—making it easy to see who might be open to a new connection.
“We want people to know this is not a marriage proposal; it’s just lunch,” Houston added. “The whole idea is to have fun, make a connection, network, and maybe give someone the opportunity to meet a new friend they would have never crossed paths with otherwise.”
Fundraising for a vital cause
All proceeds will benefit the United Way of West Alabama Emergency Fund, which provides urgent assistance to individuals, families, and communities facing unexpected hardships. In addition to ticket sales, YLS is seeking corporate sponsors, silent‑auction donations, and community partners to maximize the impact.
Jackie Wuska Wear, President and CEO of United Way of West Alabama, said, “YLS has always looked for creative ways to bring people together while making a difference. The Dating Game is a great example of that. It gives our community something new and entertaining to experience while raising resources that allow United Way to be there when our neighbors need help most.”
Tickets and additional details
Tickets and further information are available at uwwa.org/dating. The evening will also feature food and drinks, a silent auction, photo opportunities, and other interactive experiences.
This event reflects YLS’s broader mission to engage young leaders in service and community building, offering a fresh way for Tuscaloosa residents to meet, have fun, and support a cause that strengthens the safety net for West Alabama families.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
