AUGUSTA — Maine-based restaurants, caterers and chocolatiers are invited to showcase their original desserts at Crisis & Counseling Centers’ premier dessert and chocolate fundraiser, A Dessert Affair, set for 5-8 p.m. Friday, March 18, at Governor Hill Mansion. The community-wide festival and competition is designed for dessert lovers of all ages, and is in support of mental health services.

The evening will include dessert tasting, a wine and beer bar, live music and a silent auction. Vendors will vie for the People’s Choice Award and enter desserts into additional categories to be judged by a panel of representatives from the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Kennebec Valley, Augusta Police Department and the local food industry, among others.

Crisis & Counseling Centers serves individuals and families with behavioral health needs, including mental health, substance abuse and co-occurring concerns. The nonprofit agency is the sole provider of crisis services for Kennebec and Somerset counties, with some programming statewide. Event proceeds will help provide access to mental health care for people who otherwise could not pay for services.

Vendors will have the opportunity to share their desserts with Maine community members and business professionals. The registration fee of $25 covers the cost of the table, paper products and venue.

To register as a vendor, donate silent auction items or sponsor this event, call Public Relations and Fundraising Manager Courtney Yeager at 213-4523 by Jan. 22. For more information about A Dessert Affair, visit crisisandcounseling.org.