Several Selma and Dallas County residents went casual for a cause Thursday night when they slipped on their favorite pair of jeans for the annual Blue Jean Ball.

The event, which drew hundreds, benefited the Journey School, which helps students with disabilities progress through interactive programs.

This year, Journey School director Renee Alsobrook said the outpouring of support was even more than last year.

“We don’t have an exact head count yet, but we think it is around 300 people with ticket sales and everything else,” she said.

“The response has just been wonderful. It is even bigger than last year.”

Increased attendance, Alsobrook said, is huge because it means more revenue and more possibilities.

“This allows us to continue our mission,” she said. “Without the support of the community, we wouldn’t be able to continue offering the services we have.”

Proceeds from the annual Blue Jean Ball go directly into the school. The money provides summer camps, developmental testing, art activities and iPad interactive programs to help students with their physical agility, hand-eye coordination, speech development and communication skills.

Though the Blue Jean Ball has come and gone, there are still opportunities for people in the community to help out. For more information about the school, call 872-1222 or visit thejourneyschool@yahoo.com.