Cottonwood Inc. will offer an Oscar-themed gala Monday honoring the community members, staff and customers who’ve contributed to the agency.

The Cottonwood Classies is set for 6:30 p.m. Monday at Free State High School. The event is free and open to the public.

“It’s our way of honoring the people who work at Cottonwood and the people that we support,” said Peggy Wallert, director of community relations and development.

Between 400 and 500 people typically attend that annual event, Wallert said.

Cottonwood provides employment and other assistance for people with disabilities. It serves more than 600 people each year in Douglas and Jefferson counties.

Among Monday’s honorees are Hank Booth and Jan Williams, who will receive Lifetime Achievement Awards. Booth has been on the Cottonwood Foundation Board since its inception in 1985. Williams is one of the agency’s founding members.

Staff members John Dunlap and Andrea McMurray will receive Caring and Commitment Awards. Kansas University’s Department of Student Housing will be honored as Outstanding Community Employer. And Gary Gates and Stephen Kirk will receive Consumer Recognition Awards.

The event includes videos made by staff to be broadcast on a theater-sized screen.

“It’s just like being in the movies,” Wallert said.