Area organizations that focus on the needs of children in Douglas County are invited to apply to become a beneficiary of next year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Oct. 2.

Applications can be downloaded at lawrencestpatricksdayparade.com and are also available by calling 749-6677 or by e-mail at info@lawrencestpatricksdayparade.com. They also may be picked up at McDonald Chiropractic Clinic, 953 E. 23rd St.; Cottin’s Hardware and Rental, 1832 Mass.; or KLWN/The LAZER, 3125 W. Sixth St.

Previous beneficiaries include Boys and Girls Club, Ballard Center, Ryan Gray Playground for All Children, Lawrence Memorial Hospital’s pediatric wing, THRIL, Douglas County Infant/Toddler Coordinating Council, Crown Casting Club, Lawrence Youth Football, The Shelter Inc. and HealthCare Access. Since its founding, the parade has raised more than $500,000 for local charities.

Activities associated with the 23rd annual parade — set for March 17 — include a benefit auction Feb. 27, as well as a 5K/fun run, a motorcycle run, a dart tournament, a trivia contest and a queen pageant.